In circumstances where Irish law defines sexual harassment as "unwanted verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature", the current spotlight is firmly focused on what is and isn't appropriate in the workplace. Exactly when does "harmless" workplace banter fall foul of this definition?
EmploymentJohn Dallas, Partner, A&l Goodbody looks at the current status of the energy efficiency targets in the Public Sector and looks at what is next?
Energy & Natural ResourcesThere has been a considerable amount of political and media discussion recently on the topic of multi-party or class actions and whether Ireland should introduce procedures to allow for such actions.
DisputesIn recent weeks, the complex legality of defining sexual harassment has come into sharp focus. Irish law defines sexual harassment as “unwanted verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature”. But exactly when does seemingly “harmless” workplace banter or an “innocent” flirtation fall foul of this definition?
EmploymentEuropean Competition Commissioner Vestager gave a wide-ranging speech, entitled "Clearing the Path for Innovation", at the Web Summit in Lisbon on 7 November 2017.
EU, Competition & ProcurementOn 6 November 2017, the European Commission approved, under the European Union's State aid rules, various Belgian tax measures designed to assist the maritime transport sector.
EU, Competition & ProcurementLast month, the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) published its "Regulatory Sandbox – Lessons Learned Report". In the Report, the FCA evaluated the progress of the UK financial regulatory sandbox during its first year of operation and tentatively concluded that the initiative has so far been a success.
FinTechWithin the last two weeks the High Court has issued a judgment which serves as a useful reminder that when it comes to the proposed retirement of an employee, the first issue an employer needs to consider is whether it is actually entitled to retire the employee at all.
EmploymentThe Criminal Justice (Corruption Offences) Bill, 2017, has been published by the Minister for Justice and Equality. This Bill is one of the actions identified by the Government last week, as part of a broader package of measures to tackle white collar crime. Enactment is scheduled for Q4 2018.
Regulatory Risk & InvestigationsFrom a domestic perspective, the Central Bank has published new application forms and related guidance for authorisation as a Payment Institution and Electronic Money Institution. New guidance has also been issued with regards to the industry funding levy and transaction reporting under MiFIR. At a European level, the Commission has issued guidance on obtaining brokerage and research services...
Financial RegulationFrom a domestic perspective, it has been a relatively quiet month for investment firms. However, at a European level, ESMA has been occupied with MiFID II/MiFIR related activity. ESMA is continuing to update its Q&As on both pieces of legislation and it highlighted the preparations it is undertaking for MiFID II and Brexit in a speech at the ECON hearing where there was particular focus on third
Financial RegulationOn the domestic front the Central Bank held its Annual Insurance Industry Briefing; the Civil Liability (Amendment) Bill 2017 approaches final stages. On the European front the European Parliament calls for a delay on application of the Insurance Distribution Directive; EIOPA publishes its first set of advice on specific elements of the Solvency II Delegated Regulation and Guidelines on Complex...
Financial Regulation
