The Discrimination (Jersey) Law 2013 comes into effect on the 1st September 2014. It is a wide ranging Law covering goods, services, access to public premises etc. as well as employment.
‘Race’ includes colour, nationality, national origins and ethnic origins.
The Law prohibits race discrimination consisting of acts against: employment candidates, employees, ex-employees, partnerships, agency workers and those undertaking voluntary work.
Specifically in relation to employees/employment candidates; it will be unlawful to discriminate in, amongst other areas: recruitment, dismissal, promotion and the offer of training.
Employers must therefore be careful that, when making any decisions about employees, they do not treat any employee less favourably than another because of their race.
Discrimination does not need to be intentional to be unlawful. An equal opportunities policy is strongly advisable to convey the company’s anti-discrimination ethos to all staff.
Discrimination claims can be made to the Employment Tribunal, where employers could be faced with penalties of up to £10,000.
For more information call Peninsula’s 24 hour advice service on – 01534 728 551.
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