The WRC awarded bus driver Simon Logue €15,600 after finding Boyce Coach Travel Limited unfairly dismissed him, and ordered the company to pay a further €200 over his written terms of employment. Adjudication officer Shay Henry said the dismissal was disproportionate and the disciplinary process fell below the required standard.
The decision, dated 28 February 2022, concerned a client complaint that Logue had left passengers on a bus while cutting back obstructing branches. Logue said he had permission from the service user's mother and was acting for health and safety. The company said the client required a driver change and no suitable alternative work was available. The officer found Logue had not received written notice of the allegation or an opportunity to be represented, and accepted that he had obtained permission before cutting the branches.