First published on Thursday, August 21, 2025
Last updated on Thursday, August 21, 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.
Demotion for kissing a colleague was unfair, WRC rules
A WRC adjudicator has recommended that an airport security worker who was demoted for kissing a subordinate should be given his old job back. The adjudicator issued a non-binding recommendation, calling the demotion “excessive”. The worker had five years’ experience, with two years as a supervisor.
The employer claimed the worker committed gross misconduct by "kissing a colleague during active operational duties". This led to a demotion and final written warning. Employers should always consider proportionality and rationale in the disciplinary process. If you’re in doubt, seek help from an HR expert.
Rise in remote-only job offers in Ireland
New research has shown a significant increase in remote-only roles across Ireland, especially in tech. Remote-only roles in the technology sector increased by 33.1% in the last six months. It’s no surprise that demand for AI professionals has increased, as more and more occupations are exposed to AI.
People management for remote-only employees doesn’t have to be hard. As well as time and performance tracking, employers could brush up on their communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills. Good communication helps remote teams feel supported, engaged and considered.
Bank of Ireland referred to the WRC over in-office working
The Financial Services Union (FSU) has referred Bank of Ireland to the WRC over proposed changes that will require employees to work a minimum of eight days in the office per month. An FSU spokesperson said union members that work for the bank feel “frustrated, angry and ignored by senior management”.
According to the latest HR barometer, hybrid working has become the norm. However, half of employers are finding it hard to maintain engagement in a hybrid setup. Having a clocking-in solution which supports flexible working and ease-of-use is a good way to get started.
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!
