Alina moved to Dublin two years ago to build a better life. She found work at a busy marketing agency, and after a strong interview, she was offered a position on a two-month probation period. Her manager seemed friendly, and she was excited about the role. Everything was going well until she discovered she was pregnant three weeks into the job.
Following advice from her doctor, Alina told her manager about her pregnancy. She was careful to do this calmly and professionally, hoping the company would support her through this important time in her life. Instead, just two weeks after sharing her news, her employer called her into an office and dismissed her. They said her probation period made it easy to let her go, and they didn't give a real reason beyond saying the role "wasn't working out."
Alina felt shocked and hurt. She had been doing her job well, and nothing had changed except that she was now pregnant. She wondered if this was legal, especially since she had only been there for five weeks. With no income and a baby on the way, she didn't know what to do or where to turn.
When Alina sought advice, she learned something important: Irish law protects pregnant workers from dismissal, even during probation. The law doesn't require you to have worked somewhere for a certain length of time to have this protection. Because her dismissal was linked directly to her pregnancy announcement, it was unlawful. Alina had a strong case, and she was able to take action.