Female migrant workers 'mistreated' - study

Female migrant workers are experiencing widespread discrimination and mistreatment in the workplace, according to a study being published by the Equality Authority today.

Female migrant workers are experiencing widespread discrimination and mistreatment in the workplace, according to a study published by the Equality Authority today.

The research says they have experienced under-payment or non-payment of wages, unethical recruitment practices and breaches of their entitlement to a contract, as well as harassment by employers.

It also says many are working in jobs below their skills level, with some of the women employed as cleaners or housekeepers despite having university degrees.

The study, which is based on interviews with 36 migrants from 19 countries, is being published to coincide with Anti-Racist Workplace Week.

Some of the women involved say they believe Irish employees would never be treated they way they are.