Companies ‘must be aware of changing employment laws’

Posted 10/05/2011

UK firms must ensure they are fully aware of any changes in employment law, as this is a fast-moving area that can be difficult to keep track of.

Rebecca McCourt, from PwC’s Legal Services team, told the Belfast Telegraph that recent developments could put many firms at risk of litigation if they fail to respond to the new environment.

“Employers who fall foul of new regulations face severe consequences in terms of penalties and damage to business reputation,” she warned.

In recent months, significant changes have been made to paternity leave, the default retirement age (DRA) and rights for agency workers.

Ms McCourt stated that research by PwC has shown that many employers are not aware of the implications of some of these new laws, particularly with regards to the ending of the DRA.

She reminded businesses that ignorance of the law is no excuse and urged them to take action to ensure they comply.

Companies may also want to tighten their anti-discrimination policies, as according to consultancy firm Reabur, more than half of people have faced some form of prejudice in the workplace.