Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
94. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the call for legal aid to be provided for workers going to the Workplace Relations Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1735/22]
View answerLegal Aid policy is a policy matter solely for my colleague, the Minister for Justice. I understand that legal aid is not currently available for employment rights disputes.
The employment rights enforcement frameworks have been designed to deliver a fair, simple, cost effective and user-friendly service for employers and employees in the State. Parties availing of the adjudication services of the WRC are not subject to cost orders and proceedings are designed to be inclusive of lay litigants.
However, in accordance with section 40 of The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014, there are circumstances in which the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) can give legal assistance to a person who wishes to bring or has, a matter before the Workplace Relations Commission or the Courts.
