Courts / Dublin / Report

Amputee kicked out of gym after asking for hose to wash his 'bits and pieces' wins €8k

Date
2025-02-10

Stage
Charge Or Pretrial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

A Workplace Relations Commission adjudicator ordered West Wood Club CLG in Sandymount, Dublin 4, to pay €8,000 to Robert Flynn for disability discrimination and victimisation. The decision, published following an October 2024 hearing, found that the gym failed to provide reasonable accommodation for Flynn, who has a lower left leg amputation. Flynn alleged that after requesting a shower hose to wash his "bits and pieces," he was accused by staff of being vulgar and subsequently expelled. The club's general manager claimed Flynn asked to "wash his arse," a statement Flynn denied, stating he used the phrase "bits and pieces." The adjudicator noted that while some staff felt uncomfortable, Flynn was not rude or abusive, and no formal complaints were made until after his expulsion. The tribunal concluded Flynn was retaliated against for invoking his rights under the Equal Status Act 2000. The adjudicator ordered €5,000 for discrimination and €3,000 for victimisation. Additionally, a compliance direction was issued requiring the club to re-evaluate its shower facilities to ensure legislative compliance. Andrew Murnaghan of KM Solicitors LLP represented Flynn, arguing the club failed to investigate adaptation requests. The matter was concluded with this final adjudication and compensation order.