A public consultation has been launched on employment law reforms in Northern Ireland.
The Employment Rights Bill will address issues including zero-hours contracts, so-called “fire and re-hire” practices, the operation of trade unions and work-life balance issues including the right to disconnect and family-related leave.
The consultation seeks views on four aspects of a ‘Good Job’, as defined by the Carnegie Framework: terms of employment; pay and benefits; voice and representation; and promote a healthy work-life balance.
Economy minister Conor Murphy said: “Modernising our employment law framework is one of my key priorities. I want to take views on a range of issues, including how to tackle zero hours contracts; ensure that tips left to workers are passed on to them in full; make it easier for trade unions to organise; and promote a healthy work-life balance so that workers can manage their work and family lives.
“This is an ambitious programme of work. I will continue to consult with business and trade union representatives to design a framework that operates effectively for businesses, for workers and for our economy. I encourage everyone to respond to the consultation.”
The consultation will be open for 13 weeks from 1 July 2024 to 30 September 2024.