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Protected Disclosure Regime in Ireland: A Safe and Effective Mechanism for Reporting Wrongdoing
A recent article has revealed the existence of a protected disclosure regime in Ireland, designed to shield whistleblowers from retaliation and ensure that wrongdoings are investigated and addressed. The law provides a range of protections for employees who report wrongdoing, including confidentiality, immunity from civil and criminal liability, and redress for any penalization or unfair treatment.
Redress for Employees
Employees who make protected disclosures are protected against being penalized, either directly or indirectly, for their actions. This includes:
- Dismissal
- Unfair treatment
- Threats of reprisal
- Loss of promotion opportunities
- Negative performance reviews or employment references
- Withholding of training
If an employee is dismissed as a result of making a protected disclosure, the dismissal is considered unfair and they may be awarded compensation up to five years’ pay. Additionally, employees who make false disclosures can face criminal charges and fines up to €5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.
Investigations and Feedback
The Office of the Protected Disclosures Commissioner (OPDC) will investigate reports of wrongdoing and provide feedback on the actions taken or planned within three months (extendable to six months in certain cases). The commissioner will also provide information on the final outcome of any investigations.
Sources close to the matter have praised the protected disclosure regime, stating that it provides a safe and effective mechanism for employees to report wrongdoings without fear of retaliation. “This law is crucial in promoting transparency and accountability in the workplace,” said one source. “It ensures that employees can speak up without fear of retribution.”
Help for Employees
For more information on protected disclosures, employees can contact the OPDC or seek independent and confidential advice through the ‘Speak Up’ helpline at 1800 844 866. The Transparency Legal Advice Centre (TLAC) also provides free legal advice to anyone who wants to disclose wrongdoing under the Protected Disclosures Act.
Feedback Requested
This article was compiled anonymously, and we are seeking feedback from sources familiar with the matter within three months. We will provide an update on any actions taken or planned in response to this report.
Please contact us at [insert email address] if you have any information or would like to request anonymity.