Resignation Notice Period

ap2012s

Hi,

I'm working in a new job in Galway that just isn't working out well for me.
I've already gained another position so I intend to resign and take the new job.
However, my contract states that I have to give 2 months notice, which to me seems excessive considering I've only been employed for 2 months at this stage.
I understand that usually when you've been employed for less than 13 weeks, 1 weeks notice is sufficient, but since my contract states I am to give 2 months notice, do I absolutely have to honour that, or given the circumstances would it be reasonable to disregard my contract and simply give 1 weeks notice?
What repercussions could this have? I'm not after a reference letter or anything, but would like to know that I will still be paid for what I have worked, would my employer have any legal right to withhold pay that is owed to me for what I have worked?

retroactive

Lenght of notice may be different during a probationary period.

ap2012s

My contract says I have to give 2 months notice, even during my 6 month probationary period (which I'm still in) Is this really legally enforceable or is it just the companies preference so they've put it in my contract? Is it really worth the paper it's written on?

delta_bravo

They can't really do anything. Technically could pursue a civil case for breach of contract but unless you're an essential employee I doubt they'll bother.

ap2012s

Thanks for that, and they'd still have to pay for the the weeks I have worked and am owed money for?