First published: July 27th, 2022 ------- Last Updated: July 27th, 2022
Saturday, July 30th, marks World Day against Trafficking in Persons.
At present, it’s important for businesses to consider whether they’re doing all they can to ensure a legal and compliant process when recruiting to avoid inadvertently facilitating trafficking.
Here, we look at what employers can do to ensure their recruitment processes prevent trafficking. We also cover what to look out for when taking on new employees.
How employers can help prevent trafficking
On the topic of trafficking, Moira Grassick, Chief Operating Officer at Peninsula Ireland, says, “Ireland is amongst the countries who have offered refuge to those fleeing the war in Ukraine, with many communities and businesses doing all they can to help. But, sadly, there are those out there who look to take advantage of the situation, so it’s important that employers ensure they do things properly to avoid inadvertently facilitating those who look to exploit others.
“It should go without saying that any employer wishing to offer employment to any refugee or overseas worker needs to ensure that the correct documentation is provided at each stage throughout the recruitment and onboarding process, whilst meeting at least national minimum wage rates.
“Falling foul of this can actually constitute trafficking, something every business will want to do their utmost to avoid.”
Right to seek employment
Regarding the right to seek employment in Ireland, Moira says, “Employers have to date received clear direction from Government regarding the right to seek employment in Ireland by Ukrainian nationals arriving here. The approach taken to offering those travelling to Ireland from Ukraine to escape the conflict still stands.
“As the situation is fluid, employers should continue to keep up to date with direction from Government on the right of those travelling to Ireland from Ukraine as these may change in the coming days and weeks. It’s important to be aware of all of the requirements and ensure that the documentation provided by an applicant being considered for employment is in line with guidance from Government departments at any given time.”
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