Courts / Ireland / Report
Wind turbine firm 'repeatedly refused' to allow trade union rep attend disciplinary hearing
2022-10-17
Hearing Or Decision
Summary
The Workplace Relations Commission found that Enercon Windfarm Services Ireland Ltd repeatedly refused to allow a technician's trade union representative to attend disciplinary meetings, undermining the worker's trust in the company. The tribunal upheld Paul McNutt's complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 and awarded him €7,000 for constructive dismissal. McNutt claimed the firm targeted him because of perceived trade union activity, a claim the company denied. The company's representative, Mairead Crosby of Ibec, said McNutt had entered incorrect hours on a training week and was investigated. McNutt was disciplined with a final written warning in May 2019, later suffered a workplace accident, went on sick leave, and filed a grievance over pay while on leave. He resigned in November 2019. The tribunal noted that Enercon's repeated refusal to allow a trade union representative to attend disciplinary proceedings was an ongoing procedural flaw and unreasonable behaviour, leading to the award of compensation.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Wind turbine firm 'repeatedly refused' to allow trade union rep attend disciplinary hearing. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- May 2019 Other
- November 2019 Other
- July 2018 Other
- February 2019 Other
- 2022-10-17 Publication
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