The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has published its Annual Report for 2024, and the message is clear—non-compliance with employment legislation remains widespread, and the risk for employers is increasing.
Workplace Inspections: Over €2 Million in Unpaid Wages Recovered
In 2024, the WRC carried out 5,156 workplace inspections across Ireland. A strong focus was placed on sectors with high instances of low pay, with over €2.16 million recovered in unpaid wages.
Industries Most Affected:
Many of these inspections originated from employee complaints (753) and targeted WRC campaigns (1,230), while risk-based inspections (2,873) formed the bulk.
Rise in Joint Inspections
The WRC increased its collaborative efforts with other state agencies, including:
Department of Social Protection
Revenue Commissioners
An Garda Síochána
Joint inspections more than doubled between 2022 and 2024, showing that data-sharing and inter-agency collaboration is intensifying.
Complaints & Adjudication: 18% Year-on-Year Increase
The WRC also saw a sharp rise in workplace disputes:
- 7,316 complaint applications lodged
- 14,890 individual complaints filed (avg. 2 per application)
Most common complaint types:
- Pay – 3,995
- Unfair Dismissal – 2,285
- Discrimination/Equality – 2,063′
A new digital complaint portal launched in September 2024 is expected to make filing easier, potentially increasing volumes further.
Mediation Matters: Resolution Rates on the Rise
WRC mediation activity increased 14% in 2024, with:
894 mediations conducted
526 resolved successfully
427 withdrawn after parties engaged with mediation
The resolution rate rose to 59%, up from 56% in 2023—underscoring the value of early intervention.
What This Means for Employers
If your business:
- Operates in a high-risk sector like food, retail, or beauty
- Employs minimum-wage or part-time staff
- Lacks updated contracts, handbooks, or disciplinary/grievance procedures
…you could be at an increased risk of a WRC inspection or complaint.
How Voltedge Management Can Help
As a trusted HR consultancy based in Ireland, we provide:
- HR audits to identify compliance gaps
- HR documentation and contract updates
- Mediation support and WRC representation
- Employee relations training for managers
Ensure your business is audit-ready and fully compliant. Voltedge Management’s team of expert consultants are here to provide tailored support, guidance, and advice. To learn more, contact us at info@voltedge.ie or 01 525 2914.
Eoghan Harley, HR Consultant
