Bus driver unfairly sacked after pruning branches at client's home

A bus driver employed by Boyce Coach Travel Ltd has been awarded €15,800 in compensation following an unfair dismissal ruling by the Workplace Relations Commission. Simon Logue was dismissed after pruning tree branches obstructing access to a client's home in counties Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim whilst operating a Local Link service for disabled passengers. Mr Logue stated he had sought and received permission from the service user's mother before cutting back the branches in September 2019. The family subsequently complained to the HSE, alleging Mr Logue had interfered with their property without consent. Adjudication officer Shay Henry found the dismissal unfair, noting that proper disciplinary procedures were absent, no written notice was provided, and Mr Logue was afforded no opportunity to respond or be represented. Mr Henry also noted the employer made no attempt to contact the mother to verify Mr Logue's account. The officer concluded Mr Logue had acted appropriately to ensure health and safety and protect company property, finding his dismissal extraordinary and unjustified.