Workers' rights helpline takes 93,000 calls in 2007

A workers’ rights helpline received 93,000 calls received from the public in 2007, it emerged today.

The National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) also carried out 14,000 inspections aimed at enforcing the minimum wage, protecting young workers and monitoring the construction sector.

The watchdog, which is a year old, referred 98 cases to the Chief State Solicitors Office for prosecution in the courts.

A major publicity campaign also began today to inform workers of their rights. NERA recovered €2.5m in wages for workers during 2007.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Micheal Martin said: “The launch of this information campaign marks another important step in ensuring that employers know their responsibilities and that workers know their rights.”

“This will be an extensive information campaign with information being provided online, on radio and television as well as through billboard and the print media. Running over a 12-month period the aim is to reach 85% of the population.”

A new www.employmentrights.ie website is already informing employers and employees on their rights and responsibilities.

NERA director Ger Deering said the new awareness campaign wanted to ensure that every employee knows what their employment rights are and that every employer knows their responsibilities.

Minister for Labour Affairs Billy Kelleher said Ireland is entering a new era for employment rights compliance and enforcement.

“With increased staff and new locations NERA will be extending their reach and building a strong public profile,” he commented.

NERA has a staff of 41and has offices in Carlow, Cork, Dublin, Shannon and Sligo.

It employs inspectors who have the power to inspect an employers records, photocopy files and interview and require further information from others.