Damien English

Judges last week upheld the constitutional validity of the WRC in the Zalewski case, but declared that certain aspects of the WRC procedures were unconstitutional.The final orders were confirmed yesterday.

Employment Minister Damien English said: “The WRC’s adjudication service is an integral part of ensuring that our extensive employment and equality rights are afforded to the residents of Ireland.

“The decision of the Supreme Court means that the adjudication service will continue to deliver significant benefits to both employers and employees, enhanced by amending legislation that I will bring forward on foot of the judgement.

“It is crucial that the WRC can hear cases and make rulings to build on its track record of delivering a fair, simple, cost effective and user-friendly service for employers and employees in the State.”

He said the government would work with the Oireachtas to “bring forward some procedural amendments to the law to enable the WRC to continue to discharge its statutory functions in line with the Constitution”.

The amendments will cover the ability for evidence to be provided on oath/affirmation and power to prosecute for giving false evidence; and for the generality of hearings to be heard in public, save those that may, in circumstances to be defined, heard in private.

Mr English said: “I acknowledge that the ruling of the Supreme Court may impact some cases currently before the WRC. My department is moving swiftly on this matter and is currently drafting emergency legislation to be introduced as a matter of urgency in the coming weeks.

“I do believe these procedural changes will ensure continued improvement of the adjudication services.”