The Protection of Employees (Fixed-Term Work) Act 2003 aims to uphold the rights of fixed-term employees in accordance with EU Directive 1999/70/EC. It establishes crucial protections, ensuring that fixed-term employees are treated no less favourably than their comparable permanent counterparts in terms of employment conditions. The Act specifies requirements for objective justifications when less favourable treatment occurs and mandates clear communication from employers regarding the terms of fixed-term contracts.

Additionally, the Act outlines procedures for enforcement, granting rights commissioners the authority to handle complaints from employees or their trade unions. It allows for appeals to the Labour Court with stringent timelines, ensuring that employees can challenge non-compliance effectively. Exclusions apply to certain categories of employees, such as defence forces members, and provisions are made to amend existing legislation to align with the new protections afforded under this Act.