Young Fine Gael (YFG) has unanimously passed a motion calling on the Government to strengthen the Workplace Relations Commission’s enforcement powers in cases of harassment and sexual misconduct, following a debate at the organisation’s recent Summer School in Dundalk.
The motion reflects YFG’s continued commitment to building safer, more accountable workplaces for young people across Ireland. Delegates emphasised that current enforcement mechanisms do not go far enough to protect workers or ensure meaningful consequences for perpetrators.
Speaking after the event, YFG Director of Women’s Engagement Bebhinn Lombard said the unanimous vote sends a clear message:
“Young people deserve workplaces where harassment and sexual misconduct are taken seriously, investigated quickly, and met with real consequences. Strengthening the WRC’s enforcement powers is essential to ensuring that every worker – especially young women can feel safe, respected, and protected.”
Lombard added that empowering the WRC would help close gaps in enforcement, reduce delays in investigations, and ensure employers uphold their responsibilities under Irish employment law.