Courts / Ireland / Report
Irish Rail clerical worker dismissed after failing random alcohol test, High Court hears
Summary
Carol Sheridan, a 55‑year‑old clerical officer with 37 years at Irish Rail, was dismissed on safety grounds after a random breath test on 27 September 2023 recorded 50 µg per 100 ml, above the company's 35 µg threshold. She was initially suspended, then dismissed following a disciplinary process. Sheridan argues that no serious safety issue was identified and that she had not consumed alcohol at work, only the night before. She appealed the dismissal; a Disciplinary Appeal Tribunal set it aside on condition she received a written warning and underwent random testing, which she accepted and returned to work in December. The company, citing safety concerns, refused to comply with the tribunal's decision and sought to dismiss her again. Sheridan's union requested clarification of the safety issue, but Irish Rail maintained its position. The case was adjourned to May, with Sheridan to receive her salary pending the hearing.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Irish Rail clerical worker dismissed after failing random alcohol test, High Court hears. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- September 27th Hearing Or Sentence
- March 5th Other
- 2017-02-22 Publication
Why: She claims Irish Rail cannot dismiss her on safety grounds because no serious safety issue has been identified by the company. CNI source report
Places mentioned
- High Court
Topics
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