Duties and responsibilities of Employee Representatives

The Code of Practice on Duties and Responsibilities of Employee Representatives and the Protection and Facilities to be afforded to them by their Employer was introduced by the Labour Relations Commission in 1993 under the Industrial Relations Act, 1990. The main purpose of the Code of Practice is to set out for employers, employees and trade unions the duties and responsibilities of employee representatives (frequently referred to in trade union rule books and employer/trade union agreements as shop stewards). It also sets out the protection and facilities which should be afforded them in order to enable them to carry out their duties in an effective and constructive manner.

This Code is specifically aimed at Union Representatives, however, it can be referred to for guidance on matters that cross over with regard to the Employee Representatives that are appointed under the Information and Consultation legislation.