Fair Employment Clause
As Gaeilge: Clásal Fostaíochta Cothroma
Also known as: Employment Standards Clause, Fair Wages Clause
Last reviewed April 2026
A contract clause requiring the supplier (and its subcontractors) to comply with employment, equality and pay legislation throughout the contract.
A standard clause inserted into Irish public contracts requiring the contractor and any subcontractors to comply with applicable employment law, including the National Minimum Wage, Sectoral Employment Orders (especially for construction and electrical), the Organisation of Working Time Act, the Employment Equality Acts, and the Protection of Employees on Transfer of Undertakings. Used as the legal hook for enforcement action where wage or working-conditions complaints arise on public works.
Sources and legal basis
Primary legislation and official guidance. Always confirm the current text on the source before relying on it.
Related terms
Social Clause
A contract requirement that the supplier deliver social outcomes (apprenticeships, employment of long-term unemployed, training places) alongside the works or services.
Subcontracting
The practice of a main contractor engaging third parties to deliver part of a public contract, regulated under Regulation 71 of S.I. 284/2016.
Exclusion Grounds
Reasons a bidder must (mandatory) or may (discretionary) be barred from competing: convictions, tax debt, insolvency, prior misconduct.
Economic Operator
The EU procurement term for any supplier, contractor or service provider (an individual, firm, or consortium) that bids for or performs a public contract.
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