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Devolution and Employment Relations in Northern Ireland

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  • Niall Cullinane

Abstract

This article examines the impact of devolution on employment relations and trade union dynamics in Northern Ireland within the unique framework of its power‐sharing institutions. It considers how employment policy has developed under devolution, given that employment law is a devolved matter for the region. It also seeks to address what influence the trade union movement has had on the devolved political arrangements. The article argues that the governing administration has engaged in limited innovation in employment law, although there is evidence of intended and unintended divergence from Westminster policy. It is proposed that while the trade union movement played a critical role under Direct Rule during “the Troubles,” its influence has waned since devolution, although it retains pockets of influence within the local political structure.

Suggested Citation

  • Niall Cullinane, 2025. "Devolution and Employment Relations in Northern Ireland," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 56(6), pages 482-491, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:indrel:v:56:y:2025:i:6:p:482-491
    DOI: 10.1111/irj.70008
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Norma Heaton & Paul Teague, 1997. "Towards Fair Employment in Northern Ireland?," International Review of Applied Economics, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 11(2), pages 263-285.
    2. Linda Dickens, 2014. "The Coalition government's reforms to employment tribunals and statutory employment rights—echoes of the past," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 45(3), pages 234-249, May.
    3. Edmund Heery & Deborah Hann & David Nash, 2020. "Political devolution and employment relations in Great Britain: the case of the Living Wage," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 51(5), pages 391-409, September.
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