AQW 45081/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 29/04/2026
Answered On Date: 07/05/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any consideration she has given to including provisions within the forthcoming Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill, to prevent the misuse of non-disclosure agreements in cases of workplace harassment and discrimination.

Answer:

My ‘Good Jobs’ Employment Rights Bill contains a number of important upgrades to our employment law to improve conditions for workers and employers here, the proposals for which were subject to public consultation. The use of non-disclosure agreements did not form part of that consultation.

I recognise, however, the importance of preventing the misuse of non-disclosure agreements. There are issues arising which cut across the responsibilities of departments, and it is my view that dedicated consideration, including consultation, is necessary with a view to the possibility of legislation in the next Assembly mandate and I have asked my officials to scope out this work.