New statistics released by the Office of Industrial Tribunals and the Fair Employment Tribunal reveal a significant increase in unfair dismissal claims across Northern Ireland during 2025, a trend that has continued into early 2026.
The Numbers
Unfair dismissal claims rose by 18% year-on-year, with over 2,400 individual claims lodged in the 2025 calendar year. Belfast accounted for the largest share of cases, reflecting the concentration of employers and employees in the greater Belfast area.
Common Issues
Legal practitioners report that the most common grounds for claims include:
- Redundancy disputes — Employees challenging the fairness of selection criteria and consultation processes.
- Disciplinary procedures — Claims arising from alleged failures to follow proper disciplinary and grievance procedures.
- Constructive dismissal — Employees resigning due to intolerable working conditions and claiming constructive unfair dismissal.
- Whistleblowing — An increase in claims from employees alleging dismissal or detriment after making protected disclosures.
Advice for Employers and Employees
Employment solicitors in Belfast advise employers to ensure that robust internal procedures are in place and that managers receive adequate training on handling disciplinary and grievance matters. Employees who believe they have been unfairly dismissed should seek legal advice promptly, as strict time limits apply for bringing tribunal claims.
The standard time limit for filing an unfair dismissal claim in Northern Ireland is three months from the date of dismissal, though early conciliation through the Labour Relations Agency is required before a claim can proceed.