Essential points
There are two types of dismissal recognised in Irish law:
- Unfair dismissal: governed by the Unfair Dismissals Acts 1977-2015. To bring a claim, the employee will generally (subject to some exceptions) need to have to have one year’s continuous service with their employer. Such claims are brought at first instance before the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
- Wrongful dismissal: arises at common law and is based on a breach of ordinary contract law. Claims are brought before the Circuit Court or High Court and there is no qualifying time period.
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​While every care has been taken in compiling this content, the CIPD cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. These notes are not intended to be a substitute for specific legal advice.
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