Workplace bullying is widespread in Ireland, a new survey has found.

The Workplace Equality Report, a new survey conducted for Matrix Recruitment, looked at a sample of 1,300 workers and found 88% believe bullying remains a problem in the Irish workforce.

Parental support and flexibility are also key issues, with more than half of workers worried that taking parental leave could damage their career.

66% of respondents said they had experienced passive aggressive remarks or unjust criticism in front of colleagues.

Verbal abuse affected 31% and 8% reported sexual harassment.

55% of respondents reported these issues to their human resources department but only 20% felt their complaints were properly resolved.

Most of those who did not make a report were concerned about how it would be dealt with internally - with women more concerned than men.

Workplace Bullying. Image: Alamy