Employment Law Changes in Ireland for 2026: What Employers Need to Know

Introduction

2026 is set to bring some of the most significant employment law changes Ireland has seen in years. These reforms aim to improve fairness, transparency, and employee protections—but they also mean higher compliance obligations for employers. Here's what's coming and how you can prepare.

Pay Transparency Directive

From June 2026, Ireland will implement the EU Pay Transparency Directive.

• Employers must publish salary ranges in job adverts.
• Employees gain the right to access pay levels for comparable roles.
• Ban on asking candidates about previous pay history.
• Employers must document how pay and promotions are decided.
  

Rise in the National Minimum Wage

• Increases by €0.65 to €14.15 per hour.

Pension Auto Enrolment Introduced

From January 2026 Government Auto Enrolment Retirement Savings Scheme

• New Retirement savings scheme introduced 'My Future Fund'. Place compulsory contributions for employees and employers who meet the criteria.

EU Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act Provisions Apply

From August 2026 EU AI Act

• The European Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) is the first comprehensive legal framework for regulating AI systems and applications in the EU. The Act initially came into force on 1 August 2024, however most of the provisions will become applicable from 2 August 2026.  Employers should be aware that unintended bias in AI algorithms can arise when these systems are used in areas such as recruitment, performance management, promotions or terminations and the new regulatory framework will ensure compliance in these areas based on level of risk.