WRC recommends €3,692.24 compensation and clearer probation procedures

The Workplace Relations Commission recommended that a catering company pay a worker €3,692.24 and clarify its probation procedures. The recommendation was dated 23 January 2023. The worker said his probation review was late, his performance comments were not considered and his dismissal was unfair. The company argued an earlier case prevented the dispute from proceeding and said it had followed fair procedures. The adjudication officer found the earlier decision did not bar the dispute, and that the delay in the probation review was not exceptional. The officer found the company had not adequately considered the worker’s submissions or given him enough time or help to improve his performance. The WRC recommended clearer procedures for probation extensions and performance improvement plans, along with compensation equal to net wages for the two months of the extension that had already elapsed.