Rights:

Get clued up about your work rights, when you can legally do a whole load of stuff, laws you should know about and what to do if you get into trouble with the law. 

When can I...?

Leave School

Under the present law a young person is required to attend school until they are 16 years of age.

Receive Contraceptive Advice and Supplies

In certain circumstances the doctor will provide contraceptive advice and supplies to under 16’s if they have general understanding without their parents/guardians consent.

OPEN A Bank Account in my own name

No matter how much money you have in the bank, you cannot open a current account until you are 18 years old.

Serve on a JURY

A person may be called upon to serve on a jury in a court of law from the age of 18. Members of a jury are citizens who are on the electoral register. If you are called upon to attend for jury service and fail to do so, you are commiting an offence and are liable to be fined.

GET MARRIED – 18 years old

In theory it is possible to marry under 18 if a court exemption is sought and 3 months notice is given to the state.

Get a part-time JOB

15 years and over is your answer. A child can work part time during the school term or during school holidays, provided there is a minimum 3 week break from work during the summer.

Get a full-time JOB

The minimum age of full employment for a young person is 16 years old. A person as young as 14 can be employed during the school holidays to do light work. This permission will be given on the condition that the work will not be harmful to the child’s development, safety or health. The work offered cannot interfere with the child’s education.

Buy Alcohol

It is illegal for anyone under 18 years of age to buy alcohol and for a publican or retailer to supply alcohol to anyone under 18. It is also an offence to allow children under 15 into a pub during opening hours, unless accompanied by an adult. To work in a pub you have to be 18 years or older unless related to owners or apprenticed.

Get a PASSPORT in my own name

If your parents give consent you can have your own individual passport at any age. At the age of 18 you can apply for your own passport without parental consent.

For more Information visit: www.SpunOut.ie