Whistleblower Protection in Northern Ireland: Update to Prescribed Persons List

The Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland has announced an update to an important piece of legislation aimed at protecting whistleblowers. This update comes in the form of the Public Interest Disclosure (Prescribed Persons) (Amendment No. 2) Order (Northern Ireland) 2025. Let's break down what this means for those in the workplace.

What’s the Purpose?

The primary goal of this amendment is to refresh the list of "prescribed persons" under the original 1999 Order. In simpler terms, it updates exactly who whistleblowers can safely disclose information to. These could be specific individuals or bodies designated to receive such disclosures, ensuring that whistleblowers are protected when they speak up about wrongdoing.

Why This Matters

Whistleblowers play a critical role in exposing illegal or dangerous activities in the workplace, and this legislation is designed to shield them from retaliation, such as victimisation or dismissal. By having a specific list of prescribed persons, it ensures that disclosures are made responsibly and to the right people who can take action.

No Need for Public Consultation

Interestingly, the government decided that a formal public consultation was unnecessary for this update. The reasoning? This change simply aligns Northern Ireland with the rest of the UK, ensuring consistent protections for whistleblowers everywhere.

Equality and Financial Impact?

The update passed through a Section 75 screening, checking for any potential impacts on equality. The good news is that no impacts were found, meaning no further assessment was needed. Additionally, there are no financial implications associated with this update, which means no extra costs for businesses or organizations.

Does This Affect You?

If you're in Northern Ireland, this amendment is relevant to you. While it doesn't directly impact businesses or charities, it's crucial for employees and employers to understand who these prescribed persons are as part of fostering a transparent and safe work environment.

In conclusion, this amendment is a straightforward yet significant step in maintaining robust protections for whistleblowers in Northern Ireland, ensuring they can report concerns without fear. Stay informed and make sure you know who the prescribed persons are if you ever need to make a protected disclosure.