Back to: Introduction to the Labour Relations Act (LRA)
2.3 Protections against Discrimination
The Labour Relations Act provides robust protections against discrimination for both employees and employers. No person may discriminate against an employee for exercising any right conferred by the Act. This includes rights related to membership in a trade union, participation in lawful activities, or participation in proceedings under the Act.
Specifically, no person may require an employee or a person seeking employment to refrain from joining a trade union or to give up membership of a trade union. Additionally, no person may prevent an employee from exercising their rights under the Act or participating in any related proceedings. Any form of prejudice against an employee for these reasons is strictly prohibited.
Similarly, employers are protected from discrimination for exercising their rights under the Act. No person may require an employer to refrain from joining an employers’ organisation or to give up membership. Employers cannot be prevented from exercising their rights or participating in proceedings under the Act, and they cannot be prejudiced for doing so.
These protections ensure that both employees and employers can freely exercise their rights without fear of discrimination or retaliation. This promotes a fair and balanced labour relations environment where all parties can engage in their respective activities and roles.