Unfair Dismissal in Ireland: What FinTech Employees Can Do

Each year, we see changes in the FinTech sector. In 2026, the accelerated growth of AI and the adoption of new technology in Irish businesses have defined these changes. Rapid change often comes with volatility in the workplace, including  organisational restructuring, redundancies and job losses. Job insecurity is on the rise, and it's a good time to get to grips with the legal protections for professionals in the FinTech and financial services sector in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The shock of a sudden, unfair dismissal from your job can be an emotional and confusing time. The FSU understands the emotional toll and the legal side of the dismissal process, and our team is here to help. Dismissal is a process, not just a final decision - and you don’t have to go through it alone.

What is unfair dismissal?

In the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, the law states that an employer must prove a dismissal was fair: based on conduct, capability or a genuine redundancy. Typically, an employee needs to have 12 months of continuous service to qualify for protection. 

In the Republic of Ireland, under the Unfair Dismissals Acts, there is a "presumption of unfairness."  This means that the employer must prove that the dismissal followed fair procedure. 

In Northern Ireland, employees generally gain protection against unfair dismissal after 1 year of continuous service (this is different to the 2-year requirement in the UK). 

Recent data from the Workplace Relations Commission (page 16) shows that unfair dismissal now accounts for 17% of all specific complaints, highlighting it as a significant risk area in the modern Irish workplace.

At the FSU, we’ve seen an increase in enquiries this year about unfair dismissal situations. 

Is your dismissal process starting? Contact the FSU Advice Centre for a confidential consultation before your next meeting

What is constructive dismissal in Ireland?

Sometimes employers make working life so difficult that you feel forced to resign, and this is known as constructive dismissal.

This is a more difficult situation legally, as the burden of proof shifts to you, the employee. One of the most common mistakes that working professionals make is resigning in the heat of the moment. 

Our expert advice is to never resign without exhausting internal company grievance procedures first. If you do this without getting professional guidance first, it can jeopardise your ability to claim ‌constructive dismissal.

Expert advice about unfair dismissal

Our expert Advice Centre team is the first port of call for FinTech and financial services workers every year. 

Margaret, FSU Member Advisor, says, “We often hear from FinTech professionals who feel their role was made redundant, but the process felt rushed. 

My advice is always: don't sign anything in the room. You don’t have to be put on the spot. You have the right to a representative and the right to time to think. Our job is to be that calm voice in the storm, so you aren't being pressured into a decision you’ll regret."

Last year, the FSU team provided over 3,000 employees with practical guidance, helping them protect their livelihoods and understand their employment rights. With years of experience and thousands of members in the union, we bring a wealth of expertise to each situation. Join the FSU to ensure you have an expert on your side when you need it most.

What a FinTech employee facing unfair dismissal can do - practical steps 

If you are facing dismissal, you should act swiftly to protect your rights. Don’t wait until the exit interview to seek help.

Follow this 4-step checklist: 

1. Request written reasons for the dismissal: You have a statutory right to a written statement explaining why you are being dismissed.
2. Collect evidence: Save performance reviews and emails and keep an organised file. If your dismissal is linked to AI-generated performance data, the FSU can help you challenge the "managerial oversight" of these tools.
3. Know the deadlines: You have just 6 months to lodge a claim with the Workplace Relations Commission in the Republic of Ireland or 3 months for an Industrial Tribunal in Northern Ireland.
4. Seek representation: Having an FSU official or union representative there to represent you at a hearing can significantly increase the likelihood of a fair settlement or reinstatement. Book your free, 15-minute session with our Advice Centre now for support on your personal situation. 

How the FSU protects your future

We work to prevent unfair treatment before it starts. Our landmark collective agreements, such as our AI agreement at Bank of Ireland, ensure that technology is used to support workers, not replace them without due process.

When you join the FSU, you aren’t just getting a safety net; you’ll be joining a collective voice and an organisation that acts as a passionate advocate for FinTech and financial services workers. Join the Financial Services Union today.

Be proactive about your future. Contact our Advice Centre team for a free, 15-minute call and protect your career.