Part-time workers no longer workplace “Cinderellas”

Legislation passed in the Northern Ireland Assembly this week has ensured that part-time workers will now enjoy the same rights as their full time colleagues.

The Assembly unanimously supported new powers to allow the Labour Relations Agency (LRA) to conciliate in industrial disputes involving part-time workers. At present such cases have to go to an industrial tribunal. As a result of this amendment to existing legislation the LRA can now intervene on claims where part-time workers allege that they suffered a grievance at work.

Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Sean Farren said this would give greater choice for such workers and their employers and help prevent the cost and inconvenience of a full industrial hearing. He added: “Any reduction in the number of cases needing to be heard is also good news for the tribunal system itself.”

SDLP MLA John Dallat who is a member of the Committee for Employment and Learning has welcomed the move. He said: “For far too long part-time workers were the Cinderellas in the workplace. This statutory rule proposes equality for a group of people who have suffered terrible injustices in the past, often resulting in personal hardship not only for individuals but also for their families.

“At a time when more and more people are employed part-time, sometimes through choice but often through necessity, it is critical that their basic human rights are protected on the same basis as full-time workers.”

Dr Esmond Birnie, chairman of the Employment and Learning Committee also voiced his support for the change in the rules: “The committee welcomes this proposal today because it will take pressure off the tribunal system.” (AMcE)