WRC (Workplace Relations Commission)

• Compliance • Inspections • Best Practices

Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) inspections are a crucial aspect of ensuring compliance with employment laws and fair workplace practices. Whether you are an employer, HR professional, or legal representative, understanding the WRC inspection process is essential for protecting your organisation and employees. This training course provides a comprehensive overview of WRC inspections, from the initial complaint to the final hearing, equipping participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate inspections confidently and effectively. Through expert guidance, real-life case studies, and interactive discussions, attendees will gain a clear understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and best practices for handling workplace disputes in line with legal requirements.

Key takeaways:

• Understand the role and powers of the WRC
• Recognise employer obligations under Irish employment law
• Prepare effectively for inspections and hearings
• Conduct compliant internal investigations
• Learn from real-life WRC cases to prevent risk

All attendees will receive a full course pack to refer to and will have the benefit of learning from a trainer with a wealth of experience in this area.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to the WRC and Its Role

• Overview of the WRC:
  
• Core Functions:
  
• Compliance Landscape in Ireland:
  
• Recent Trends and Developments:
  

Module 2: Understanding the WRC Inspections Process

• What Triggers an Inspection?
  
• Inspector Powers
  
• Key Legislation Enforced by the WRC
  
• Employer and Employee Rights
  
• Mini Exercise: Group brainstorm – “What documentation would you prepare for an unannounced inspection?”

Module 3: Preparing for a WRC Inspection

• HR Best Practices for Compliance:
  
• Key Records to Maintain:
  
• Internal HR Audits:
  
• Responding to an Inspection Notice:
  
• Group Work: In small groups, create a 3-step response plan to an inspection notice.

Module 4: Conducting an Internal Workplace Investigation

• Why Internal Investigations Matter:
  
• Step-by-Step Internal Process:
• Common Pitfalls to Avoid
  
• Confidentiality & GDPR
  
• Employee Rights
  
• Interactive Scenario: Role-play: Interviewing a complainant – do’s and don’ts

Module 5: WRC Hearings – What to Expect

• The Adjudication Process
  
• Presenting Your Case
  
• Legal Representation
  
• Real Example Review: Sample adjudication decision what went wrong, how it could have been prevented

Module 6: Post-Inspection Actions & Case Studies

• WRC Decisions
  
• Appeals to Labour Court
  
• Preventing Recurrence
  
• Real-World Case Study Deep Dive
  
• Group Exercise: Analyse one case and present findings: What lessons should employers learn?

Who Should Attend?

This course will be very beneficial to HR professionals, team leaders, managers, directors, CEO’s, business owners, legal representatives, legal advisors, compliance officers, Trade Union officials, supervisors, line managers to name just a few.

Certification

On completion of this one-day training course, you will receive your Certificate of Attendance. Please note certificates are issued at the close of the training course to participants on completion of the course.

This course may qualify for CPD points. Please check directly with your association or awarding body to see how many points they will award.

Cost

An ‘Early Bird’ discounted rate of €499 is currently available. This training course normal rate is €599. Places are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis. PLEASE NOTE THE EARLY BIRD RATE CLOSES 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO COURSE DATE. The course cost includes all course documentation and Certificate of Attendance.