On 1 October, 2006, the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006 come into force, affecting workplaces across the province. The law will give employees new rights which will require employers to incorporate the changes into their human resources policies and procedures. The new regulations will impact on a number of areas.
The regulations will make it unlawful to discriminate – either directly or indirectly – to victimise or to harass employees on the grounds of age. Employers must be aware that they can be held responsible for the acts of employees who discriminate against fellow workers on grounds of age. Employers will have to ensure that there are equal opportunities and harassment policies in place which make clear that such discrimination is unacceptable and that employees are given appropriate training in the implementation of those policies.
