Information for School Leavers Launched

The booklet, which has been compiled by the Citizens Information Service in the county and published by Comhairle, is a brief guide for school leavers. It deals with some of the practical questions on rights and entitlements young people have at this time, particularly if they are not going on to further study and entering the world of work. The questions and answer style format deals with issues such as ‘registering and paying tax’, ‘how will I know if my employer is paying my Insurance (PRSI)’ and how soon can I take holidays and also be entitled to Dental Treatment, for example.

A lot of queries from young people who start a job relate to employment rights and conditions at work according to Paul Woulfe, Manager of the Citizens Information Service.

“Under the terms of Employment Act, 1994 your employer should inform first time employees in writing of the term and conditions of the job, which should include the rate of pay, holidays and sick pay arrangement for example. Employers should provide these particulars in writing within two months of your employment or within one month if you are under 18 and in this case must also give you a copy of the official summary of the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act” he said.

We advise that if you don’t receive information you should request it from your employer who must provide the information within two months of the receipt of the written request or within one month if you are under 18” added Paul Woulfe. The booklet also deals with health issues such as disability benefit and medical cards. Sources of further information are also given to help them make informed decisions and seek further advice.

The booklets are available from any of the Citizens Information Centre throughout the county, who offer a free and confidential service and would be happy to help with any question young people have on entitlements, benefits, taxation, local or other information.

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