Press Release by Richard Bruton TD, Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation on the publication by the MRCI’s Domestic Workers Action Group of a paper on childcare and the domestic work sector
3rd June 2015
The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mr Richard Bruton TD, today (Wednesday) welcomed the publication by the Migrant Rights Centre of Ireland of a paper on childcare and the domestic work sector.
Noting that “au pairs”, “nannies” or “child-minders” are not exempted or treated as separate categories of workers under Irish employment law, the Minister emphasised that all individuals who are legally employed on an employer-employee basis, regardless of what title is given to them, are entitled to the full protection of Ireland’s comprehensive suite of employment rights legislation.
The Minister recalled the Government’s decision last year to ratify the ILO Domestic Workers Convention.
“The decision to ratify the ILO Convention on Decent Work for Domestic Workers was an important milestone and showed a strong commitment on the part of Ireland to the rights of domestic workers”.
“Ireland already has a strong track record in the area of protecting people involved in domestic work and it was of particular note that Ireland was in a position to ratify the ILO Convention without having to amend our existing suite of employment rights legislation.”
“The National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) has been proactive in undertaking a programme of inspections involving domestic workers and in disseminating information about the respective rights and responsibilities of employees and employers under employment law”.
Further, the Labour Relations Commission, in conjunction with the Social Partners, produced a Code of Practice for Protecting Persons Employed in Other People’s Homes, which recognises the unique circumstances that occur in the domestic work employment relationship.
The Minister reminded all concerned that NERA continues to respond to any complaints received from childcare or other domestic workers and that anyone who has concerns about their employment rights should contact the Workplace Relations Customer Service Unit of NERA at 1890 80 80 90 or via the website www.workplacerelations.ie
In conclusion, the Minister said, “I intend continuing to work with my colleagues in Government, including the Minister for Business and Employment in my Department, Minister Nash, to improve the prospects and conditions of workers in all sectors.”
Ends
For further information contact:
Press Office, Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Employment - Ph 6312200 or press.office@djei.ie