You may have seen media coverage earlier this week highlighting growing business concerns about the proposed Northern Ireland Employment Rights Bill.

In response to these concerns, we joined over 20 business organisations in writing collectively to the Minister for the Economy. This letter followed earlier correspondence from CBI Northern Ireland, FSB Northern Ireland, the Institute of Directors, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Manufacturing NI. Since then, wider engagement across the business community has shown that concerns are increasing, with clear consensus now developing across sectors and industries.

We have attached a full copy of the letter that was sent to the Minister.

The proposed changes are significant for employers. At a time when businesses are already under pressure from rising energy costs and ongoing economic uncertainty, it is vital that any reforms to employment law are carefully considered, proportionate, and not rushed through within the limited remaining time of the current Assembly mandate.

We will continue to engage with policymakers and work alongside other business organisations to ensure the practical realities for employers are fully understood. We will keep members informed of any developments as this progresses.

If you have any views or concerns you would like to share, please do not hesitate to contact us.

10.04.26 Letter to the Minister for the Economy on behalf of business groups

PR Business Groups Concerns Employment Legislation Embargoed 130426