Kate Daniels shares her experience as an intern at WRC

Friday, September 28, 2018 - 08:45

In my final year, I decided to take an elective module in Employment Law with Professor Doherty, which I thoroughly enjoyed. This encouraged me to apply for an internship at the Workplace Relations Commission. The internship was 10 weeks in duration, during which I was exposed to the practical side of employment law. One of the first things that stood out to me from the office was the inclusive atmosphere. Everyone was extremely approachable and helpful to ensure I got the most out of the Internship, which included legal research, attending adjudication hearings, and accompanying solicitors to the Four Courts. All too frequently interns are stuck behind a photocopier or simply shadow a solicitor all day; however, one of the best aspects of interning with the Workplace Relations Commission was that at all times I felt that I was involved in meaningful work, and that my efforts were truly valued. Attending adjudication hearings afforded me the opportunity to understand the processes involved in a hearing whilst learning from experts present in the room. Along with two other fantastic interns, I was involved in compiling an interim report of all cases heard in the Workplace Relations Commission in 2018. This gave me the opportunity to further my legal education through using skills I learned in University in a very practical way. In reading through the decisions, I gained an appreciation of the positive work carried out by the organisation in protecting both employers and employees. The work was extremely varied and interesting which made the experience invaluable. I was also frequently asked to research different types of legislation which exposed me to new areas of law and enhanced my overall understanding of employment law. The Internship was an excellent learning experience, and the work I was involved in will most definitely stand to me throughout my legal career.