Why You Should Always See a Copy of Your Interview Notes in a Workplace Investigation
If you've been interviewed as part of a workplace investigation—whether it's related to a grievance you raised or allegations made against you—one important but often overlooked question is this:
Did you get to see a copy of the notes taken during your interview?
If the answer is no, that may be a sign that the investigation process wasn't as fair or transparent as it should be.
No Law Requires It—But That Doesn't Mean It Doesn't Matter
Under Irish employment law, there is no strict legal requirement that an investigating officer must provide you with a copy of your interview notes. But just because it's not written in black and white doesn't mean it isn't essential.
In fact, failing to give you a chance to review and comment on the notes taken during your interview can have serious consequences for the fairness and integrity of the entire investigation process.
When investigators record what you said—but never show it to you—those notes become their interpretation of your words, not your account. That's a problem, especially when those same notes are later used as evidence to support a disciplinary action or to reject your grievance.
Why It Matters: Evidence Should Reflect Your Voice, Not Theirs
Let's say the investigator writes down what they believe you said, but they misunderstood a key point—or omitted something important. If you never get the chance to review those notes, you're denied the opportunity to correct the record.
When this happens, the notes are no longer a neutral record—they become part of a narrative created by the investigator. In a worst-case scenario, that narrative could be used to justify disciplinary action, dismissal, or to dismiss a legitimate complaint you raised.
In cases like these, you may be able to argue that the investigation was procedurally flawed—especially if:
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You were not given a copy of the notes.
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You were not given an opportunity to comment or clarify.
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The investigator relied on those notes to make findings or recommendations.
Fair Procedures and Natural Justice
Even though there's no law that explicitly states interview notes must be shared, the principle of natural justice does apply. That principle says:
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You should know the case against you.
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You should have an opportunity to respond to any evidence or claims made.
If the investigator relies on notes that you've never seen—and you've had no chance to correct or clarify them—you've been denied that opportunity.
This kind of procedural gap can be challenged at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and may strengthen your case if you're making a complaint about unfair treatment, discrimination, bullying, or unfair dismissal.
What You Can Do
If you've been interviewed as part of a workplace investigation and you weren't given a copy of the notes, you can take the following steps:
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Formally request a copy of the notes and ask for the opportunity to comment.
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Record your concerns in writing if you feel the notes don't reflect what you said.
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Ask whether the notes are being used as evidence to support any findings or outcomes.
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Get advice—because the earlier you spot procedural unfairness, the better your chances of challenging it effectively.
We Can Help
At WorkplaceDisputes.ie, we support employees through every stage of a workplace dispute—from internal investigations to WRC complaints. We understand how easily unfairness can creep into what looks like a formal process—and how to challenge it when it does.
If you're dealing with an investigation and you weren't given the opportunity to review your notes, reach out. We'll help you assess the situation and take the next steps to protect your rights.
📞 Book a free 30-minute consultation