Knowing Entitlements for Part Time Employees

Part-time employment offers flexibility and alternative work options for both employers and employees, but understanding correct entitlements is crucial to ensure fair treatment and protection.

We have provided an overview of key entitlements, including working hours, pay, annual leave, public holidays, parental leave, and other important considerations:

?? Definition of Part-Time Employment: In Ireland, part-time employment refers to a work arrangement where an employee works fewer hours than a comparable full-time worker.?

? Working Hours: Part-time employees are entitled to work fewer hours than full-time employees, but they still enjoy certain protections. The maximum average working week for a part-time employee is generally 48 hours, but this can be averaged over a specific period, typically four, six, or twelve months.

?? Pay and Minimum Wage: Part-time employees are entitled to be paid at least the minimum wage as determined by the government. The minimum wage is regularly reviewed and adjusted, so it's important to stay updated on the current rates. Employers must ensure that part-time employees receive equal pay for carrying out similar work as full-time employees.

?? Annual Leave: Part-time employees are entitled to annual leave, which is calculated on a pro-rata basis. The amount of annual leave they must receive will depend on the number of hours the employee works per week. Typically, part-time employees are entitled to 8% of the hours worked in a leave year. For example, if they work 20 hours per week, they would be entitled to 8% of 20 hours (1.6 hours) for each week worked.

?? Public Holidays: Part-time employees have the right to time off or additional pay for working on public holidays. The specific entitlement depends on the number of hours worked and the employer's policies. If a part-time employee is not rostered to work on a public holiday, they may be entitled to a day's pay or an additional day of annual leave.

?? Parental Leave: Part-time employees have the same entitlement to parental leave as full-time employees. ?

?? Other Considerations:

A - Protection against unfair treatment: Part-time employees are protected against unfair treatment or discrimination based on their employment status. They have the right to the same treatment and opportunities as full-time employees.

B. Training and development: Part-time employees should have equal access to training and development opportunities offered by their employer.

C. Pension entitlements: Depending on the employer's pension scheme, part-time employees may have access to the same pension benefits as full-time employees.

Contact our Director Kelly M. [email protected] if you require assistance to ensure you are providing correct entitlements to all your employees.