Discrimination at work largely under-reported

The Equality and Rights Alliance says under-reporting of discrimination in the workplace is at an alarming level.

A new report shows that 380 thousand people have experienced discrimination in the years following the start of the recession.

Between 2008 and 2011, cases coming before the equality tribunal fell by 33%, cases supported by the Equality Authority plummeted by nearly 66%.

Co-ordinator of the ERA, Rachel Mullan said more resources need to be put in place.

"There is potential with the newly-merged Equality and Human Right Commission – if it's properly resourced to discharging its function," she said.

Mullan said that there is a clear need for additional funding to help the EHRC address the issue of discrimination in the workplace.