Equality Commission examines pregnant women's workplace treatment
- Published
The Equality Commission said employers should be aware of relevant laws
Pregnant women and mothers' treatment at workplaces in Northern Ireland is to be examined by an equality watchdog.
The Equality Commission's formal investigation will look at the extent to which having a child creates barriers to equal treatment.
Among its most commonly received complaints are from women who feel they have been treated unfairly, either when they become pregnant or upon returning from maternity leave.
Its report is due next year.
Chief commissioner Dr Michael Wardlow said it was important for employers to be aware of the laws governing pregnancy and maternity rights.
"This investigation will provide us with a wider perspective and a greater depth of knowledge of the issues facing women in the Northern Ireland workplace today," he said.
"How we accommodate and support the needs of pregnant women and mothers in the workplace is a crucial test of our willingness as a society to enable women - who make up almost 50% of the workforce - to participate in it fully and without disadvantage."