Working Hours in Ireland
The standard working hours in Ireland are 8 hours per day and 39 hours per week. Any work beyond this must be compensated as overtime. However, many employees work longer hours due to collective agreements or individual contracts.
Employment Rights and Benefits in Ireland
Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
Employees in Ireland are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks of paid vacation per year. In addition, workers are entitled to a varying amount of sick leave depending on the duration of their employment. For example, employees are entitled to up to 92 days of paid sick leave per year after a certain period of employment.
Social Security Benefits
All employees in Ireland must be registered with the social security system. Employers must contribute to the system on behalf of their employees, while employees must also make contributions. This contribution provides employees with a range of benefits, including healthcare, maternity leave, and a pension.
Maternity and Paternity Leave
Expectant mothers in Ireland are entitled to 26 weeks of maternity leave, paid at their full salary. Fathers are entitled to 2 weeks of paternity leave, paid at their full salary.
Severance Pay
If an employee is terminated without just cause, they are entitled to receive severance pay. The amount of severance pay depends on the length of service with the employer. For example, employees with less than 2 years of service are entitled to 2 weeks pay, while those with more than 20 years of service are entitled to 4 weeks pay.
Pensions
All employees in Ireland are entitled to a pension through the social security system. Both employers and employees must make contributions to the system, which is managed by the government. The pension is calculated based on the number of years of service and the average salary earned during the last 10 years of service.
Types of Pensions for Expats in Ireland
Expats who are working in Ireland may be eligible for a pension through the social security system. However, they must meet certain requirements. Firstly, they must have legal residency in Ireland and be contributing to the system. Secondly, they must have worked in Ireland for at least 520 weeks.
Expats who do not meet these requirements may still be able to receive a pension through a private pension plan. These plans are not regulated by the government and are offered by a range of private companies.
Retirement Age in Ireland
The retirement age in Ireland is currently 66 years old. However, this is set to increase to 67 years old in 2021 and 68 years old in 2028.
In conclusion, workers in Ireland are entitled to a range of employment rights and benefits, including paid vacation and sick leave, social security benefits, and severance pay. All employees must be registered with the social security system, which provides a pension. Expats may be eligible for this pension if they meet certain requirements, or they may be able to receive a private pension plan. The retirement age in Ireland is set to increase in the coming years. It is important for both employers and employees to understand these employment terms and conditions to ensure that workers are being treated fairly and in accordance with the law.