IRELAND | Internship: At work | Cultural standards
The world of work in Ireland is similar to that in other EU states. Ireland 's economy is now one of the most modern in the EU, with a large number of multinational corporations choosing to site their European headquarters in Ireland. This is especially true of IT producers with Microsoft, Oracle, Intel and Google all being based in Ireland. There are also numerous small and medium sized enterprises which contribute to a diverse and open economy. Ireland has one of the most modern and hi-tech economies in the European Union.
The normal working week is 37.5 to 39 hours. Generally, the working day starts at 9am, lunch is usually an hour taken around midday and finishing time is 5pm. Increasingly many firms have adopted a flexitime scheme whereby within certain limits, employees may determine their own hours of work.
Pay and conditions vary from firm to firm but you must remember that anyone coming to Ireland on placement must satisfy some legal requirements. You must register with the local social welfare office get a Personal Public Security Number (PPS) with the tax authorities and in order to get paid. Tax is payable on a portion of all earned income. It is the employers' responsibility to ensure that tax is deducted at source but if the trainee does not stay in Ireland for a full 12 months then they should apply to the local tax office for a tax refund if the tax paid is greater than the tax credits allowed. See www.revenue.ie for details.
Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) is a compulsory scheme into which all employees pay a small portion of their wages in order to insure against loss of earning through sickness or unemployment. All employees have PRSI deducted automatically from their gross pay and unlike tax deductions it is non refundable. There are no other deductions, which you should have to pay, however if in doubt do not hesitate to contact the department of social welfare and clarify any issues that you may have.
Under Irish employment law, all employers are obliged to insure their employees in the workplace. Ensure you have a European Health Insurance Card www.ehic.ie or an E111 form before you come to Ireland.
Dress codes are relatively relaxed in Ireland but it is advisable to seek direct advice from the firm prior to commencing the placement. Smoking in the workplace is forbidden and many companies have a similar ban on eating at the workstation.
Although the Irish have a reputation for being relaxed, punctuality in the workplace is considered very important and to be late creates a negative impression.