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'Peace has broken out': Paralympian resolves guide dog discrimination claim against French restaurant

Date
2024-06-04
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

In a 2024 Workplace Relations Commission hearing, Paralympic cyclist Martin Gordon claimed that La Maison, a French bistro in Dublin, discriminated against him and his family because he had his guide dog, Juno, with them on 14 January 2023. Gordon, his partner Louise Byrne, and their nine‑year‑old daughter had been denied indoor seating three times, allegedly because the restaurant's policy had changed from dog‑friendly to prohibiting dogs inside. Witness testimony, including CCTV footage, was presented by both parties. The restaurant's barrister argued that the dog was not visible to staff and that the policy applied to all dogs. After the hearing, the tribunal announced that the parties had reached an agreement, and the case was withdrawn. No further legal action was described.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Peace has broken out': Paralympian resolves guide dog discrimination claim against French restaurant. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Why: Photo: Collins) Paralympic cyclist Martin Gordon has "resolved" a disability discrimination claim against a top-rated French bistro after accusing it of refusing to let him and his family dine indoors last year because he had his guide dog with him. CNI source report

Case subjects

Martin Gordon

Defendant

Outcome: Four weeks was sought and granted, and Mr Dalton adjourned the matter, where Ms Byrne was the only witness called.

Places mentioned

Address Area
  • South William Street
Secondary Mention

Topics

Stage Trial

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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