Welcome to WWLLQ, your go-to guide as a Legal Island hub subscriber.  We’ve got the latest on key themes you can’t afford to miss—from AI shaping the future of HR to the latest case law developments in Ireland. Whether it’s managing annual leave or remote work challenges, we’ve got the insights to keep you ahead of the game.  

AI in HR: Friend or foe?

Barry Phillips continued his exploration on all things AI-related and how AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming HR processes—from simplifying expense claims to upskilling teams. Whether you’re using it to process expense claims or upskill employees, there are two golden rules for staying on track: transparency and responsibility. But watch out! Banning these tools can backfire—push them underground, and you’ll face even bigger risks. Instead, manage AI use smartly and leverage its full potential.

Case Law Round-Up: what you need to know 

Several high-profile cases have recently impacted employment law in Ireland. In Grainne Sherlock v Pluralsight, a successful claim for constructive dismissal highlighted the importance of clear communication and fair treatment in the workplace. Meanwhile, in Caroline Ahearne v Regional Foods, a wrongful dismissal decision reminded employers to always review the terms of dismissal carefully to avoid unnecessary litigation.

The Philip Nolan case has stirred up quite a debate regarding unfair dismissal and contractual rights. Triona Cody from Kane / Tuohy looks at the implications of the ruling, which emphasises the critical importance of having clear employment contracts that outline employee rights and the grounds for dismissal.

Flexibility for employers and workers 

Jennifer O’Neill from LK Shields Solicitors LLP outlines how the Employment Permits Act 2024 brings significant flexibility to Ireland’s immigration and labour system. It streamlines processes, making it easier for employers to hire international talent while offering greater protections for workers.

Speaking of flexibility, Jason McMenamin from A&L Goodbody LLP looked at remote working and what was decided in the recent TikTok case.  The WRC analysed both the obligations on employers who receive remote work requests, and the remit of the WRC in respect of complaints lodged by employees pursuant to the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023. You can catch up on it here if you missed it.

Wellbeing 

Annual leave chaos is real, especially as the year comes to a close. Caroline Reidy from the HR Suite focuses on managing annual leave balances offers strategies to keep everyone happy and avoid last-minute scrambles for time off. Caroline also looked at the issue of work life balance and wellbeing.  Caroline outlines actions employers can take to help their employees, and in turn paving the way for a happier, more productive workplace.

And we kept the team at A&L Goodbody busy, with Caoimhe Grogan providing an overview of Disability Pride Month - an important initiative aimed at promoting visibility, acceptance, and equal rights for people with disabilities.

Upskilling: Future-proof your workforce 

In a fast-paced digital world, upskilling your employees is no longer optional—it's essential. Zara Mirza from AAB People says whether it's embracing AI or offering training in leadership and well-being, you need to create a learning culture that aligns with future demands.

TUPE and changing service providers 

Navigating the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations—commonly known as TUPE—is essential when changing service providers. Chris Ryan from A&L Goodbody outlines how outsourcing, insourcing and a change of service provider (also referred to as a second-generation outsourcing) can trigger TUPE, where certain conditions are met.

Collective redundancies 

New regulations on collective redundancies aim to streamline procedures and enhance employee rights during redundancy situations. Employers must now provide more detailed information to employees and follow stricter consultation timelines. Siobhán Lafferty LK Shields Solicitors LLP provides guidance.

Whistleblowing 
 
Antoinette Vahey from RDJ LLP answers a question about an employee claiming she is being penalised as a result of having made a protected disclosure. What is a protected disclosure? How do I handle it? Don’t worry – Antoinette has the answers you need!

Webinars: Must-watch sessions this quarter 

These webinars are packed with actionable advice for HR professionals:

Neuroinclusion in the Workplace – Learn how to foster a neuroinclusive environment with legal and practical approaches to supporting neurodiverse employees with our expert Declan McQuillan from Arthur Cox. And Legal Island has launched a Neurodiversity Awareness at Work eLearning package to help embed those crucial messages about inclusion with expert guidance and tips.

Comparative Law Webinar – Employment law differs across Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain.HR professionals operating in multiple jurisdictions must stay informed of the differences. Lewis Silkin and Legal Island updated the handy guide to help HR keep up-to-date with comparative laws to avoid legal missteps and ensure compliance across regions.  

That’s a wrap! From AI trends to case law updates, we hope this edition has armed you with the tools to keep your organisation compliant and forward-thinking.