A Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) inspection is an official compliance check where authorised inspectors can enter a workplace, interview employers and employees, review records, and take formal statements. A “WRC audit” is commonly used to describe the same compliance activity, focusing on documentation and practices against employment law. Both terms in practice refer to the WRC’s inspection and enforcement function established in 2015, which succeeded NERA’s prior inspection role.

Are WRC inspections unannounced and what should I expect on the day?

Many inspections are unannounced. Inspectors can arrive without prior notice, request immediate access to records, and speak with staff. If breaches are identified at this initial visit, the employer is instructed to take corrective action.

How does a WRC inspection (WRC audit) process work step by step?

Step 1: Initial inspection

Inspectors review records and practices. If breaches are found, directions to rectify are issued.

Step 2: Request for evidence of compliance

The WRC follows up in writing, seeking proof that corrective actions were completed.

Step 3: Follow-up inspection and possible legal referral

If the response is incomplete or non-compliant, the WRC warns that legal proceedings may follow and may conduct a follow-up inspection to verify compliance.

Immediate referral in specific cases

Where a breach of the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act 1996 is identified, the WRC refers the matter for prosecution after the first inspection—no further warning is issued.

What documents do I need for a WRC audit checklist?

Employers should be able to produce the following records when requested:

• PPS number, name and address for each employee
• Terms and conditions of employment
• Job classification or title
• Start and, if applicable, end date
• Payroll information
• Copies of payslips
• Accurate hours of work
• Register of employees under 18 (if applicable)
• Annual leave and public holiday entitlements received
• Details of board and lodging (where applicable)

Inspectors may request additional documentation to verify compliance.

What triggers a WRC inspection or audit?

Inspections may be prompted by employee complaints (including anonymous reports) about non-compliance or poor record-keeping, as well as by the WRC’s own monitoring across sectors in Ireland.

What did WRC inspections find most recently (2024 snapshot)?

From January–December 2024, inspectors conducted 6,217 inspections covering 5,156 employers; 2,108 employers were found in breach, with over 7,700 specific contraventions identified. The most significant issues related to Payment of Wages, particularly around the 2023–2024 National Minimum Wage increase. Inspectors recovered over €2.1 million in unpaid wages (up more than €200,000 on 2023). Sectors with the highest inspection activity included Food Service Activities, Wholesale & Retail Trade, and Hair & Beauty.

Across 2024, the WRC received 7,316 complaint applications, representing 14,890 individual complaints—up from 14,158 in 2023. A total of 175 prosecutions were undertaken, with 141 successful outcomes and 77 convictions recorded.

What are the possible outcomes after a WRC inspection?

Outcomes range from informal rectification directions and documentary follow-up to legal proceedings, including prosecutions where warranted. Successful prosecutions and convictions were recorded in 2024, reflecting the WRC’s enforcement remit.

How can Irish employers prepare for a WRC inspection or audit?

• Keep the 10 core records listed above up to date and readily accessible.
• Ensure payroll and payslips align with current minimum wage and statutory entitlements.
• Maintain accurate working time and leave records, including registers for under-18s where relevant.
• Brief managers on how to support unannounced inspector visits and staff interviews.

These preparation steps align with the WRC’s documented powers, record requirements, and recent findings.

Note on scope: The pages reviewed do not quantify the exact proportion of inspections that are unannounced or list every possible document an inspector might request; the WRC may seek additional records as needed.