The Government is seeking views from interested parties on legislation, in effect since late 2022, that provides protection for tips.

Neale Richmond (Minister of State for business, employment and retail) said that the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment wanted to hear from workers and business owners on how the legislation was working in practice, and where possible improvements could be made.

The Payment of Wages (Amendment) (Tips and Gratuities) Act 2022 requires that a statutory review take place after one year to assess its impact.

Possible weaknesses

Minister Richmond said that the legislation provided “clarity and transparency” on how tips, gratuities, and service charges were treated, and was of particular benefit to workers in the hospitality and services sectors.

"While the vast majority of employers treat employees and their tips well, where issues arise, employees can turn to the Workplace Relations Commission if they feel they have been unfairly treated," he added.

A consultation document from the department sets out:

• The background to the current legislative framework for tips and gratuities,
• An overview of the key requirements of the act,
• Possible weaknesses in the current legislative framework, and
• Possible areas for improvement.

Views from interested parties are requested by 3pm on 22 February 2024. Submissions should be emailed to employmentrights@enterprise.gov.ie.