Courts / Ireland / Report

HSE worker who said she was 'never given a proper break' in 26 years wins €11k

Summary

Jackie Deevy, a care worker employed for 26 years at a residential home, won a compensation award of €11,023 after the HSE was found to have breached the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997. Deevy had complained to the Workplace Relations Commission that she was never given a proper break, often only able to grab tea and a sandwich near a service user. The HSE had not kept working‑time records and claimed an exemption for healthcare workers, but the tribunal found the exemption did not apply because the HSE failed to record or provide adequate breaks. The tribunal awarded Deevy 10 weeks' pay and ordered the HSE to comply with the legislation and maintain a record of breaks. The case was heard by adjudicator Conor Stokes, who noted that breaks taken with residents did not constitute rest. The HSE's residential care location was not named to protect patient confidentiality.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: HSE worker who said she was 'never given a proper break' in 26 years wins €11k. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• 2024-11-08 Publication

Case subjects

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

Read the original CNI report