The USI has produced a flyer in conjunction with Unite the Union highlighting the rights students have as part-time workers. Click here to view the flyer.

The USI is mandated to build links with the trade union movement amongst other civil society groups, and this initiative is a positive step in doing so.

Many students work part-time jobs in order to get themselves through college and often times they find themselves being mistreated by their employers and have nowhere to turn.

Very few people would consider going to court without legal advice, fewer again would embark on major structural work to their homes without some expert input and suggestions. The same standards should apply to your work. It’s important that you know your rights and if possible, join a trade union.

Here are some of the basic rights you are entitled to as a part-time worker:

1. A written statement of terms and conditions of employment.

2. A written statement of pay or ‘payslip.

3. A minimum wage.

Most experienced adult workers in Ireland are entitled to be paid €8.65 per hour. There are, however, some exceptions to the minimum wage, including those employed by close relatives, those aged under 18 and trainees or apprentices. 

4. Annual leave from work and public holidays.

Part-time workers have the right to a proportional amount of annual leave based on the amount of time they work. All workers have the right to time off or pay for working bank holidays.

5. Unpaid breaks during working hours.

You have the right to a 15-minute break if working four and a half hours of work and a 30-minute break if working six hours of work.

6. A harassment-free workplace.

Employers, your fellow workers or customers must not bully, harass or sexually harass anyone in the work place. This is prohibited by law and you do not have to suffer bad treatment in silence.