On-the job training

[Brady]

Does anyone know if employers are obliged to pay staff while training on-the-job? I have just been told the first few hours I work on a new job are un-paid as they are training.

 

[Complainer]

What do you do for a living? Is there any training (i.e. somebody else advising/instructing/guiding) provided?

 

[Brady]

Its a first for me in a call centre - Apparently someone there will be training me! Can they do this un-paid for first 3 hours and then wage kicks in?

 

[Complainer]

Its a first for me in a call centre - Apparently someone there will be training me! Can they do this un-paid for first 3 hours and then wage kicks in?

SOunds dodgy - Contact www.employmentrights.ie to clarify

 

[TillyD]

I've just got a job in a call centre too and they are not paying the first three hours for training either. Very miserable but what can we do when it's hard enough to get a job in the first place. Hope it isn't a sign of what they are like as an overall company.

 

[Padraigb]

From [broken link removed]
"Working hours" include ... time spent on training authorised by the employer and during normal working hours".

The legislation does provide for reduced rates for training (75-90% of the full rate), but appears to envisage a substantial structured programme. See http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/2000/en/act/pub/0005/sec0016.html

 

[Brady]

The wage agreement seems to suggest that any training by the employer should be paid but unfortunately I need the job and am afraid of rocking the boat - I think I'll sleep on it and decide what to do in the morning.
Thanks

 

[Brady]

Just found out there is no legislation covering on-the-job training. Which means an employer can do what they like..... Time to emigrate.

 

[Padraigb]

Just found out there is no legislation covering on-the-job training. Which means an employer can do what they like..... Time to emigrate.

Who told you that there is no legislation? I gave you urls that indicate that there is.

 

[Complainer]

Interesting to note that this kind of exploitation is occurring in an industry where trade union membership has been traditionally very low. The OP is in a difficult situation, and does need a job. But it would certainly be worth following up with NERA, who would presumably protect his identity when following up any complaint.

 

[Brady]

I did check out the links but they were vague on 'training'. They did cover apprentiships (not the same). I contacted dept. enterprise trade & employment and they said there is no legislation dealing with training and wages and therefore employers can do what they like.......So they are.