Workplace Rights

The exploitation of migrant workers in Ireland, particularly in low-paid or poorly-regulated employment sectors, is unfortunately commonplace.  Workplace exploitation constitutes a wide variety of situations in which workers are taken advantage of and denied their employment rights provided under Irish, EU and International law.  The MRCI works to fight exploitation of workers in the following ways:

Information and Advocacy

MRCI provides a free legal information and advocacy service to migrant workers experiencing violations of their rights at the workplace.  MRCI has assisted hundreds of migrant workers in lodging formal complaints, and in receiving settlements and awards for unpaid wages and other gross violations of their employment rights.  Breaches typically include payment below the minimum wage, non-payment of holidays, and excessive working hours, among others.

For practical information on employment rights go to Information for migrant workers

Campaigns & Worker Action Groups

Exploitation is particularly prominent in sectors that have traditionally been poorly regulated and generally have low levels of unionisation, such as agriculture, domestic work, cleaning and restaurant and hotel work.  MRCI has supported the development of worker action groups where workers come together and get information and support, but also to take action together to improve conditions.

 

Domestic Workers

Restaurant Workers

Agricultural Workers