Young People have Rights in Summer Jobs

The Clare Citizens Information Service expects a large number of school students in Clare to take up summer jobs this year, as it begins a campaign to raise awareness among young people about their rights in the workplace.

Young people, as well as parents and employers will be targeted. Specially prepared Information Packs, which are free of charge on employment rights and summer jobs are being distributed through Information Centres in the county. Although summer jobs can be a positive experience, some employers do take advantage of young people and exploit them the Citizens Information said. People under 18 are entitled to a minimum wage rate of €4.90. Even though thousands of young people at work should benefit, there is still some confusion, according to the Paul Woulfe.

Young people in work also have other specific rights under the law through “The Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act” which outlines rules in relation to the number of hours that can be worked in a week, rest breaks and work finishing times

The Citizens Information Service said that any young person with concerns or queries about their work situation should contact the Information phone line provided by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, which is lo-call 1890 201 615 or their local Citizens Information Centre. The seventeen inspectors responsible for policing these regulations are also based in the Department.

According to Paul Woulfe, Manager with the Citizens Information Service there are more opportunities for school-going teenagers to take up summer jobs. “This year, we are likely to see a greater number of young people in summer jobs than ever before. However, based on past experience, some employers do take advantage of young people’s inexperience. People under 18 years of age do have special legal protection at work, and we are aiming to raise their awareness about these rights. We are also calling on employers to adhere to the law, and are demanding that the government severely crack down on law-breaking bosses who mistreat or underpay young people”.

Before employing a young person, an employer should obtain a copy pf the employee’s birth certificate to verify the age and in the case of an under sixteen year old, a letter of consent form their parents. Employers are also obliged to keep records of the employee’s details, date of birth and so on, and of the hours worked by the employee. They should retain these records for at least three years, as the onus is on the employer to show that the law has been complied with. In addition, the employer should display a summary of the legal provisions at the place of work and give the young person a copy also.

Further information is available from the county’s network of Citizens Information Centre or by contacting Ennis CIC at 44 Abbey St (opposite Old Ennis Friary) Tel: (065) 6841221.

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