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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.
Public duties
Under certain circumstances employers must give employees who hold certain public positions reasonable time off to perform the duties associated with them.
Tests and checks
Employers can do various checks to make sure future employees can do the job they are being hired to do, that they are entitled to work in Northern Ireland, and that they are not barred from working with vulnerable groups.
EARLY CONCILIATION COMING TO NI 27 JANUARY 2020
Following a change in employment law, the Labour Relations Agency will provide a new service to employees, employers, and their representatives.
Arbitration services
Those who have submitted a tribunal claim will also be offered access to the Labour Relations Agency’s Arbitration Scheme which offers a quick, non–legalistic, less formal, confidential and more cost effective alternative to a tribunal hearing.
Flexible Futures 2024
The Labour Relations Agency, in partnership with Timely Careers, and supported by the Department for the Economy, will host #FlexibleFutures24, a conference examining the case for flexible working, on Thursday 14 March 2024 in Stranmillis College, Belfast.Events
Our events ensure that you are up to date with the changes in employment relations in Northern Ireland. There is no charge for attending any of the Agency's seminars, briefings or workshops.
Social Media House Rules
Guidance for friends and followers of LRA social media accounts.
The Labour Relations Agency has a number of social media accounts including Facebook, Twitter, Linked In and You Tube. We do not endorse any private companies or individuals even if we're 'friends' with or 'follow' their social media accounts.
We reserve the right to delete posts or comments from our social media channels without warning if we believe they:
- are defamatory or libellous;
- breach Data Protection Regulations;
- use obscene or foul language;
- are distasteful, offensive or antagonistic;
- are political or electioneering in nature; or
- are advertising or promotional in nature without the prior agreement of the Labour Relations Agency.
Any persistent offenders may be blocked without prior notice.
The Labour Relations Agency's decision is final.
Flexible Working
Flexible working can deliver a win-win situation where employees are happier and more engaged because they are better able to manage the various demands on their time.