How statutory annual leave is calculated
The WRC sets out three methods: four working weeks after at least 1,365 hours in the leave year, one-third of a working week for each month with at least 117 hours, or 8% of hours worked up to four working weeks. Where more than one applies, use the method that gives the greater entitlement. Check the WRC annual-leave rules.
A “working week” follows the person’s normal pattern. Four weeks for a worker who normally works three days each week is normally 12 working days, not 20.
Public holidays are separate
Ireland has ten public holidays. For a qualifying employee, the employer chooses one of the statutory benefits: a paid day off that day, a paid day off within a month, an additional day of annual leave, or an additional day’s pay. Check the WRC public-holiday list and qualification rules.
Part-time employees generally need to have worked at least 40 hours in the preceding five weeks to qualify for a public-holiday benefit.
Leave can accrue during absence
Statutory annual leave accrues during certified sick leave and protected family leave. Special carry-over rules apply when illness prevents leave being taken. Record absence type accurately.
Check your balance
- Confirm the employer’s leave year and your normal working week.
- Separate statutory entitlement from extra contractual leave.
- Record dates taken, public-holiday treatment and carry-over.
- Ask payroll or HR for the calculation in writing.
Primary sources
- WRC: Annual Leave, accessed 11 July 2026.
- WRC: Public Holidays, accessed 11 July 2026.