Protected Disclosures Act: Information for Citizens and Public Bodies
On 20 November 2023, The Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, Paschal Donohoe, published new Statutory Guidance for public bodies on the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 as amended by the Protected Disclosures (Amendment) Act 2022, to replace the Interim Guidance published last year. Template policies for public bodies to adapt and use in developing internal reporting procedures and for prescribed persons to use in developing external reporting procedures have also been made available. This announcement comes a month after the Minister signed an Order (SI 524 of 2003) updating the list of prescribed persons.
The Protected Dislosures Act 2014 provides for a framework of statutory protections for whistleblowers in Ireland. The Act has been substantially overhauled by the Protected Disclosures (Amendment) Act 2022. The new legislation came into operation on 1 January 2023.
Speak Up Safely Guide
TI Ireland published its updated Speak Up Safely Guide to help workers make an informed decision before sharing concerns about wrongdoing. The guide is aimed at helping workers understand Ireland’s whistleblowing legislation, the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, as well as giving practical tips on blowing the whistle safely. The guide was written using TI Ireland’s experience of the Speak Up Helpline since 2011. The guide can also be useful for employers and others working with people who are reporting concerns.
Speak Up Safely Poster and Information Card
TI Ireland has created a poster and calling card for Integrity at Work members to help workers raise concerns of wrongdoing.
Protected Disclosures (Whistleblowers): List of Prescribed Persons
Whistleblowers who report relevant wrongdoing to a prescribed person are protected from retaliation by the Protected Disclosures Act 2014. The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform provides a list of prescribed persons you can make a protected disclosure to and a description of the matters you can report to them.