First published on Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Last updated on Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Welcome to HR Heartbeat, where we give you a rundown of the week’s top employment law stories. Stay on the pulse of current trends impacting your business, plus get up-to-the-minute commentaries on all things HR and legal.
Ireland battered by snow and ice, with 34,000+ without power
Met Éireann issued multiple weather warnings across Ireland, with cold weather persisting to Friday morning. In a recent update, ESB Networks said as many as 34,000 homes, farms and businesses remain without power across the country, with an additional 40,000 without water.
When staff can’t make it to work, a clear policy saves you from making it up as you go. Set expectations early by updating everyone on absence reporting, flexible working options, and any health & safety measures. Make sure to communicate any temporary changes in policy clearly and quickly.
You can start by downloading our free severe weather policy—because “winging it” isn’t frostproof.
Revenge quitting on the rise—what can employers do about it?
Revenge quitting—the act of leaving your job abruptly in response to negative experiences—is on the rise, according to a new Glassdoor survey. Data suggests the main reason are a lack of recognition, burnout, or disengagement with workplace culture.
“Ultimately, ‘revenge quitting’ is about people taking control in a world where they’ve historically had little power”, says Marais Bester, senior consultant at SHL.
Employers—focus on fostering a genuinely positive workplace culture where your teams feel valued, and grievances are addressed fairly and proactively. Conduct regular one-to-ones, ensure feedback channels are effective, and act quickly on issues before they escalate.
A smooth, professional resignation benefits both parties. For more advice on handling resignations, supporting your staff, and dealing with issues raised in a professional manner, try BrightAdvice.
Minimum wage increases to €13.50 per hour
As of the 1st of January, the minimum wage increased to €13.50 per hour. This is a key step in the Government’s plans to support an estimated 195,000 workers.
Businesses should review their payroll systems to ensure compliance. Also, review and update any employment contracts and policies where necessary. Business owners can save time using an online document library, such as BrightBase.
Plus, you’ll want to assess any knock-on effects on your pay structures, like maintaining differentials for higher-paid staff.
For instant answers on the minimum wage, or any other employment law issue, try asking Bright BrAInbox questions like: ‘How often is the National Minimum Wage reviewed?’
And that’s a wrap. Tune in next week for more headlines to make sure you stay ahead of major employment law changes!
