Study: 64% of Hospitality Workers Drained, 53% Witnessed Bullying in 2 Years

A new study found that 64 per cent of hospitality workers find their work days draining, and 53 per cent witnessed bullying or harassment in the last two years. Additionally, 6 per cent reported receiving less than the minimum wage, and 11 per cent believed they were not paid for all hours worked.

The survey of 736 mainly young, female, and Irish workers revealed that 70 per cent considered their managers good employers, 73 per cent enjoyed their work environment, and 84 per cent viewed the sector as a long-term career. Dr. Deirdre Curran of the University of Galway, who led the research, noted that conditions are «improving but not by enough.» She acknowledged migrant workers were underrepresented, making them harder to reach.

The findings were presented to employer groups, who criticized the report as overly negative. Curran stated the research was peer-reviewed by three international experts and is the largest of its kind. Despite 43 per cent of respondents being on minimum wage, there is evidence people like working in hospitality but find pay an issue for career progression.

Curran described the industry as two-tiered, with many young, easily replaceable workers enduring poor treatment, which lowers standards for those seeking long-term careers. Industry sentiment is downcast, with 59 per cent of food businesses reporting sales drops and 62 per cent facing recruitment issues due to housing shortages. Authors recommend implementing Oireachtas committee measures, including an oversight body and more government research.