Ireland Union – Supporting Workers Across Ireland
The Workers Union is committed to serving workers across the island of Ireland. Whether you work in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, we are an accessible and trusted workers union focused on improving workplace conditions, ensuring fairness, and providing practical support for all members. This page explains the differences between labour protections and systems in both jurisdictions and highlights how an Ireland union can support you.
Workers in Ireland: one workforce, two jurisdictions
The island of Ireland consists of two distinct political and legal systems:
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. Employment rights and workplace laws here are aligned with UK legislation. Workers benefit from protections such as minimum wage, working time regulations, family leave rights and protections against unfair dismissal under UK employment law.
As part of The Workers Union’s northern ireland union services, members in this region access support tailored to the specific legal environment, ensuring that Irish union members receive accurate, relevant guidance specific to this jurisdiction.
Republic of Ireland
The Republic of Ireland is an independent nation with its own employment laws. These cover areas such as annual leave entitlements, statutory redundancy, workplace safety and anti-discrimination protections. The legislative framework differs from that in Northern Ireland, reflecting the Republic’s national system of work and employment rights.
The Workers Union’s ireland workers union services in the Republic of Ireland focus on these distinct legal frameworks, ensuring members receive the appropriate expertise and information for unions in ireland outside the UK context.
Across both jurisdictions, The Workers Union is fully accessible to workers, offering guidance, support and resources tailored to the local context. Whether you identify with the irish union identity in the Republic of Ireland or as part of the northern ireland union, The Workers Union is here to support you as part of the union family.
Why an Ireland Union Matters
Workers across all sectors and regions have shared concerns: fair pay, safe working environments, reasonable hours, and security at work. Despite differences in law between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, workers share many challenges related to job stability, workplace rights, and access to support.
The Workers Union brings these diverse voices together under the common purpose of promoting dignity and fairness in work. Our approach is always rooted in practical, worker-focused outcomes.
Rights and protections in Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland, the legal framework for work protections is set by UK legislation and includes:
- Statutory minimum wage rates for all eligible workers
- Legislation on working hours and rest breaks
- Rights in relation to family leave, sickness absence and pensions
- Protection from unlawful deductions and discrimination
These protections make up the foundation of what our northern ireland union services are built upon. The Workers Union helps members understand the rights they have, how they apply, and the steps to take when those rights are challenged or unclear.
Rights and protections in the Republic of Ireland
In the Republic of Ireland, the employment landscape is governed by Irish legislation. Key protections include:
- National minimum wage and specific rates for younger workers
- Statutory paid annual leave and public holiday entitlements
- Procedures for workplace disputes and inspections by the Workplace Relations Commission
- Protections against unfair dismissal after qualifying service
As an irish unions partner organisation, The Workers Union offers support tuned to these frameworks so that union in Ireland members can confidently navigate their workplace rights.
How The Workers Union supports workers across Ireland
No matter where you work on the island, joining The Workers Union means gaining access to:
- Expert guidance and workplace information tailored to your jurisdiction
- Clear, accessible explanations of your rights and protections
- Resources that help you make informed decisions about your work life
- Support pathways that connect you with relevant institutions and services
Our services treat all workers with respect and dignity, reflecting our core ethos: every worker deserves support, clarity and confidence in their workplace journey.
Joining an Irish Union with The Workers Union
Becoming part of The Workers Union means you are part of a community dedicated to improving conditions for workers across Ireland. Whether you are searching for ie union services, looking to learn about irish unions, or exploring what unions in Ireland can offer you, we are accessible, responsive and committed to your success.
Our membership is open and inclusive, welcoming workers in every sector and region. As part of The Workers Union, you gain access to region-specific expertise while also benefiting from belonging to a broader network of workers.
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