Is this discrimination?

[Work problem]

For reasons I cant go into Im going anonymous.

I will try and give as much detail as I can.
I work for a large private company.
My role and the role of approx. 50 others is being changed.
The title is changing and some of the job description.
The new role will involve additional duties that due to the physicality
of these duties I wont be able to apply for.
Believe me they are extremely physical duties that I think a woman would really struggle with.
These duties have always been done by men, never women.
If I dont go for the role I will be just moved/shunted to role that I did 20 years ago in the company.
Job wise it would be a big come down.

Are the company discriminating against women? The ratio is currently 60:40 women to men doing
the current job.

Our union( useless) have said we should just apply for the jobs.

What do you think? Am I overreacting?

[Darva]

The work place relations commission have a good phone helpline. Maybe ask them.

[Polly13]

it could be indirect discrimination - would need more detail to advise properly so in the absence of more information please call citizens advice and give them full details. You can pm if you want. Have worked in HR for 20 odd years so I have some experience.

[Julietta]

Good advice above.
In the meantime I would make a very strong application for the new job and try to get it. You are always in a stronger position if you have the job. Id cross the next bridge then - eg if job too physical when it came to it.

[purple star]

Certainly apply for the job. Cross the next bridge when you get to it

[omgit]

Apply for the role. You are no worse off. If you find yourself in a position where you are physically not able for the role, your employers will have to identify reasonable accommodations to enable you to do your job. Bet you that your union will have a view on that

[tel]

I would apply and then do a risk assessment on the issues as if it is unsafe for you to do and you are at risk of injury then your employer has a duty of care to protect you