GSE 07-20 Domestic Violence Policy
10/July/2020
Description
Eir and the Staff Trade Unions have finalised a collective agreement on domestic violence. The purpose of this policy is to support those who may be the victims of domestic violence and to ensure that we create a safe environment whereby those affected can feel comfortable speaking about the issue. This will assist impacted employees in getting the appropriate help they may need in a confidential manner.
This policy also recognises the severe impact that domestic violence can have on eir employees and their families.
The company will facilitate up to two weeks paid leave for legal meetings, to attend court hearings, for hospital/medical appointments, to mind family members, or for any other incidents related to domestic violence. This leave will be in addition to other leave entitlements and may be taken in consecutive days or broken down.
Employees may also request the following:
• Change in working hours and/or provision of flexible working as per the company’s flexible working arrangements
• Change of work telephone number, mobile number, or email address as appropriate
• Change in work location as deemed necessary
• Financial assistance upon request in the form of advances to salary.
• Protection for the impacted employee against unnecessary disciplinary action or discriminatory treatment when work duties cannot be performed.
Given the increase in domestic violence reports during lockdown and the terrible effect this can have on working lives, we see this policy as a very welcome development.