This morning (14th May 2019) the County Carlow Chamber hosted a seminar on Workplace Investigations and the Employment Misc Provisions Bill. Delivered by Kirsty Kavanagh, Principal of Kavanagh and Co Solicitors along with Des Kavanagh is the Owner of Des J Kavanagh HR Consultancy Limited, the morning guided employers through practice, procedure and policy to assist them ensuring that they are prepared in the event an investigation is needed.

Kirsty has extensive knowledge in the area of Employment and Regulatory Law practising in all jurisdictions from internal processes, the WRC to the High Court; while Des previously worked as General Secretary of a trade union for in excess of 20 years and has represented thousands of employees in various types of investigations and cases. He has extensive knowledge in the area and has represented clients in internal processes, WRC and Labour Court. Since establishing the consultancy Des has commenced working on behalf of employers and has a significant number of companies as clients.

Speaking on the morning, Des commented “The cost to business both financial and reputational for being unprepared when dealing with investigations can have a major impact on the business”. he continued “no matter what size your company is, you need to ensure that you have proper procedures in place and that they are followed correctly”

The workshop was designed to equip employers with the necessary knowledge to ensure investigations are carried out in compliance with law.

Brian O’Farrell, CEO of County Carlow Chamber commented “The Investigative process is cumbersome and it requires an understanding of the law, your company policies, empathy and objectivity. We were delighted to welcome Kirsty and Des to the Woodford Dolmen Hotel this morning as their combined expertise in the areas truly have helped to guide the attendees to ensure they are prepared in the event they need to carry out internal investigations.”