Figures released following a Freedom of Information (FOI) request show 3,030 cases were brought in the year to 31 March 2016, relating to unfair dismissal, wages and other payments, and discrimination.

These led to 7,144 complaints, a 33 per cent rise on the previous year.

Judgments in these 3,030 cases led to pay-outs of nearly £1.5 million from Northern Ireland businesses. A total of 804 cases were settled between parties and 835 were dismissed.

Of the 7,144 complaints, over a third were eventually withdrawn, while 33 per cent were concluded through a conciliation process with help from the Labour Relations Agency.

A total of 14,404 cases and more than 30,000 complaints have been heard by the Industrial Tribunal in the past five years.

Meanwhile, a total of 97 cases were brought before the Fair Employment Tribunal in the year to 31 March 2016, a 12 per cent decrease on the previous year, leading to more than £25,000 paid out in compensation by employers.

A total of 675 cases have been heard by the Fair Employment Tribunal in the past five years.