First published on Thursday, October 2, 2025
Last updated on Thursday, October 2, 2025
Welcome to HR Heartbeat, where we take a look at the week’s most pressing HR and employment law stories. With over a decade of experience as a solicitor working in employment law, I give my opinion on current trends impacting your business, as well as my own personal commentary on all things HR and legal.
Withheld tips saw beautician paid just €5 per hour
A beautician in Dublin has been awarded more than €11,000 after tips were withheld from her. The worker was left making the equivalent of just over €5 per hour, and her employer was found to have breached the Payment of Wages Act 1991.
The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) also ruled the employer had breached the Terms of Employment (Information) Act 1995 by not having a contract. She had been told it was “better for her not to have a contract” so that she could “pay less tax”.
It goes without saying that employers need to be by the book when it comes to contracts and pay. At BrightHR, we’ve got template employment contracts and policies, for our clients to use free of charge. Lack of organisation and communication can quickly land you in hot water with the WRC.
Ryder Cup harassment
The “unacceptable and abusive behaviour” at the Ryder Cup has been widely criticised this week. Rory McIlroy opened up about the abuse experienced by European players and their families, and asked fans getting ready for Ireland in 2027 to “support your team” rather than shouting down the opposition.
Harassment at work is never ok. It can affect mental health, productivity and staff turnover. And in the case of Rory McIlroy, it can have a direct impact on families and loved ones. You could offer support with an EAP (Employee Assistance Programme) to help people bounce back. Our 24/7, 365 days a year assistance helpline is trusted by over 70,000 organisations.
More workers are changing jobs
According to Microsoft Ireland, job turnover is at a record high. The Work Trend Index shows that 38% of respondents said they have moved roles, which has doubled since 2023. Reasons for increased turnover included seeking a better work-life balance, well-being, and company culture.
My advice to employers? Keep in touch with your teams. People management is as much about workplace culture as it is about career progression and appraisals. You can celebrate achievements and build a positive workplace with our employee recognition tools. There are employee benefits platforms which can boost morale and wellbeing.
And that’s a wrap from me. Tune in next time for my take on the latest headlines and employment law stories, helping keep your business ahead!
