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Rescue helicopter crewman grounded after shoulder injury wins €50k for disability discrimination

Date
2026-06-18
Stage
Hearing Or Decision
Primary locality
Waterford
County
Waterford

Summary

A veteran Coast Guard rescue helicopter crewman, Adrian O'Hara, won €50,000 in compensation for disability discrimination after being grounded for five months despite being cleared for duty. O'Hara, who worked as a winch operator, suffered a degenerative shoulder condition and was advised by a specialist to return to work by March 2024. However, CHC Ireland DAC conducted a risk assessment that concluded he could not return to flying duties due to his medical restrictions. O'Hara argued that the risk assessment was a 'paper exercise' and that a practical assessment should have been conducted. He continued to report for work until May 2024, when he was placed on medical leave. A subsequent practical assessment confirmed he was fit to return to work. O'Hara filed a grievance, which was upheld, and the tribunal ruled that CHC discriminated against him by delaying his return to work and failing to consult him on reasonable accommodations. The adjudication officer ordered CHC to review its processes for returning staff to work after medical absences.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Rescue helicopter crewman grounded after shoulder injury wins €50k for disability discrimination. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

Places mentioned

Residence
Secondary Mention
Journey Or Route

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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