Your Rights At Work

Thousands of students are balancing the demands of academics and employment, or working part-time to fund their education. It's a balancing act that requires knowledge, support, and the assurance that your job won't hinder your progress through college

This page is your one-stop shop for understanding your rights and entitlements as a student worker in Ireland. We believe that staying informed is the key to ensuring your job complements, rather than derails, your academic pursuits.

Trade Union Week

  • Commencing on Monday 20 November, our now annual Trade Union Week is designed to empower you with knowledge and connect you with experts who want to give you a positive first experience of being a trade union member before you leave UCD and head out into the world of work. 

  • Keep an eye on this page for updates.

FAQs

What are the minimum rest periods for employees in Ireland?

  • In Ireland, employees are entitled to a minimum daily rest period of 11 consecutive hours between finishing one working day and starting the next. Additionally, you should have a rest break of at least 15 minutes if you work more than 4.5 hours and a break of at least 30 minutes if you work more than 6 hours. These breaks should be taken during your work period.

What is the minimum wage in Ireland?

  • The minimum wage in Ireland is €11.30 per hour, but young workers can legally be paid the sub-minimum “youth rate”. Remember, this is a floor and not a ceiling, and many employers offer above and beyond what they are legally required to. 

  • Those aged below 18 can be paid 70 per cent of the “full” minimum wage rate, those aged 18 can be paid 80 percent of the full rate, while those aged 19 can be paid 90 per cent of the full rate.

What if I’m not from Ireland?

  • If you're allowed to work in Ireland, it means you have certain rights. These rights apply to everyone, no matter where they're from or their immigration status. These rights are in place to make sure that you're treated fairly at your workplace. For instance, you should have a contract, reasonable working hours, and be paid at least the minimum wage, among other things required by Irish law.

    • In simple terms, it doesn't matter where you're from – these rules are there to protect you and make sure you're treated fairly while you're working in Ireland. They guarantee that you'll have a job contract, work hours that make sense, and a salary that meets the minimum wage, ensuring a fair and positive work experience.

What is a trade union, and why should you consider joining one?

  • A trade union is an organisation that represents workers to protect their rights and interests in the workplace. Joining a union can offer several benefits, such as:

    • Collective bargaining for better pay and conditions.

    • Professional advice and support if you face issues at work.

    • Access to information and resources to understand your rights.

    • Solidarity with fellow workers in similar situations.

  • Trade unions give you a stronger voice and support when it comes to ensuring your basic rights are met at work. They help level the playing field and make sure employers follow the rules, so you can have a fair and safe work environment.

How can you join a union, and do you have to inform your employer?

  • You can join a trade union by contacting the union directly or visiting their website. Membership is generally confidential, and you do not need to inform your employer about your union membership. Your decision to join a union should not negatively impact your relationship with your employer. Union membership is a personal choice, and it is your right to keep it private.

Additional Resources