Go Safe operators challenge rest-break arrangements at WRC

This report is a localnews.ie summary based on public court reporting and records; sources are listed below.

Four Go Safe employees challenged their rest-break arrangements at a Workplace Relations Commission hearing in Ennis. The proceedings were reported on 12 October 2022.

The employees, represented by SIPTU Workers’ Rights Advocate Andrea Cleere, alleged that Go Safe had breached workplace legislation on rest breaks. Ms Cleere said they were required to take breaks at their workstations while constantly engaged in work activities.

Cavan-based operator Niall Walsh said he had to monitor the speed-detection camera constantly because of changing weather conditions. Asked whether he could take rest breaks, he said he could, but would then be unable to monitor the equipment.

Go Safe’s counsel, Kevin Bell, said staff did not have to watch the equipment continuously and could leave their vans during breaks, subject to safety and security safeguards. Asked whether that would satisfy his concerns, Mr Walsh said he would need to know more detail.

The report said the WRC would issue its determination at a future date.

This case may have concluded differently. The outcome has not yet been confirmed by a public source we could find.