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Who is an employee?
There are differences between ‘employees’, ‘workers’ and ‘contractors’. These differences in status can affect rights and responsibilities in the workplace.
Escalating unresolved issues
Some issues in the workplace cannot be resolved informally so it is important that there is a fair and clear escalation process where each side meets their responsibilities. The Labour Relations Agency can offer information, flowcharts and codes of practice to help. We also offer confidential and impartial conciliation, mediation and arbitration services to help parties resolve issues without needing to go to tribunal.
The Agency is a public body with statutory responsibilities so there is no charge for our services.
About the Labour Relations Agency
We provide a free, impartial and confidential employment relations service to those engaged in industry, commerce and the public services. Our services include the provision of advice on good employment practices and assistance with the development and implementation of employment policies and procedures. We are also active in resolving disputes through our conciliation, mediation and arbitration services.
We Are Moving!
On 6 December 2022, the Labour Relations Agency moved its Head Office to James House, 2-4 Cromac Avenue, the Gasworks, at the bottom of Belfast's Ormeau Road. Our Regional Office remains at Richmond Chambers, The Diamond, Derry/L'Derry. Read more here.
Please note that phone numbers (03300 555 300 and 03300 552 220) and email addresses will remain the same.
However, there is a wealth of guides and resources on our website which may still have our old Gordon Street address. We are working our way through these to update them with the new address.
Equality statement
The Labour Relations Agency fully supports the elimination of all forms of discrimination in employment.
Resolving problems
Issues and problems can arise in any workplace. If not resolved they can cause lasting damage to individuals, to the business and to relationships. It is important to ensure there are fair processes in place to deal with problems and that organisations adopt a best practice approach. We run free training seminars and briefings and have guides, template policies and flowcharts to help. Where additional support is needed we offer free, impartial and confidential conciliation, mediation and arbitration services.
Governance
Information relating to how we are organised
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Customer Service
This page sets out how the Labour Relations Agency strives to deliver excellent customer service. It also provides the resources we use to support our work.
Who we are
The Labour Relations Agency (the Agency) was established in 1976 with responsibility for promoting the improvement of employment relations in Northern Ireland. It is independent and publicly funded.