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Former Aer Lingus captain claims he was poisoned by 'toxic fumes' on flight, WRC hears

Summary

Tom O'Riordan, a former Aer Lingus captain, has filed a claim with the Workplace Relations Commission alleging whistleblower penalisation and breaches of employment rights. He claims that on a flight from London Heathrow to Dublin three years ago he was exposed to "toxic fumes" that caused chronic fatigue syndrome and brain damage. O'Riordan says he made protected disclosures about fumes and falsification of reports to Aer Lingus management, the Health and Safety Authority, the Minister for Transport, the Air Accident Investigation Unit, the Oireachtas and on social media. He argues that the reduction of his sick pay to 75 % of his salary in January 2024, the withdrawal of sick pay in April, and the disciplinary proceedings that led to his dismissal last month constitute whistleblower penalisation. Aer Lingus, represented by Tom Mallon BL, denies any safety risk and claims O'Riordan defamed the airline, leading to his dismissal.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Former Aer Lingus captain claims he was poisoned by 'toxic fumes' on flight, WRC hears. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• January 2024 Other
• 26 February 2024 Other
• Christmas Other
• 2024-09-30 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial

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Read the original CNI report