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Restaurant turned away couple, claiming guide-dog was 'not hygienic' and could be left in yard, WRC hears

Summary

In a Workplace Relations Commission hearing, Sophia Brennan claimed she was discriminated against when she and her husband were denied entry to KOA Kitchen of Asia in Malahide with her guide dog Tim. Brennan said the staff refused them, citing health and safety and claiming Tim was "not hygienic," and suggested leaving the dog in the yard. She described feeling humiliated and dirty. The restaurant's proprietor had previously stated that staff allergies and children's fears were concerns, but Brennan said none of this was mentioned to her that evening. The restaurant had indicated it could accommodate them if prior notice had been given, but Brennan argued she is not obliged to inform a restaurant of her guide dog. The adjudicator noted the restaurant's absence and that it had sent a "tainted apology" via correspondence, concluding a clear case of discrimination pending a final decision.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Restaurant turned away couple, claiming guide-dog was 'not hygienic' and could be left in yard, WRC hears. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• 2023-03-30 Publication

Why: Ms Brennan's husband said he thought there had been some mention of putting them at an outside table, but Ms Brennan said she had no recollection of that and that they "wouldn't be sitting outside" in any event because of the time of year. CNI source report

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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Read the original CNI report