Broadening the Scope of the Employees (Provision of Information and Consultation) Act, 2006

As and from 23rd March 2008, all organisations that employ 50 or more employees will be subject to the Employees (Provision of Information and Consultation) Act, 2006. This Act sets out the minimum rights of employees to seek information and consultation in the workplace. The Act aims to ensure that information and consultation is available to all employees in a systematic manner, allowing them to acquire an understanding of the challenges and future direction of the organisation. It also provides that employees are kept informed of any decisions which may lead to significant changes in work organisation or terms and conditions of employment.

The Act does not require any immediate action from employers, and simply provides employees with the right to 'trigger' the process and request that the employer enter into negotiation on putting in place information and consultation arrangements. However, it is recommended that employers strongly consider taking a proactive approach and initiate the negotiating process with employees for establishing such arrangements.

If the employer takes the initiative, it can provide for a more amenable and positive atmosphere for negotiating with employees. It can give the employer greater influence over what subjects will be included for information and consultation and what methods and procedures for information and consultation will be put in place.

Please refer to Chapter 6, "Information and Consultation" in the Personnel Policies and Procedures – the Law in Perspective manual for more details on putting in place a Negotiated Agreement and other information and consultation arrangements.