The Workplace Relations Commission found that Aer Lingus Social Athletic Association (ALSAA) discriminated against Mary Gavin on age grounds when it compulsorily retired her at 65, and awarded her €18,400. The decision was dated 24 August 2022.
Gavin began working as a reception manager in 1988 and wanted to remain in the job. After the association told her she would retire at 65, it gave her two one-year fixed-term contracts. She was dismissed when the second contract expired. The decision records that the respondent did not attend the hearing or provide a defence.
The officer found no rationale or objective justification for the fixed-term contracts or the dismissal. Gavin’s uncontested evidence established facts raising a presumption of discrimination, which the respondent did not rebut. The officer therefore found the complaint well founded and awarded compensation, taking account of the effect of the treatment and aiming for an effective, dissuasive and proportionate amount.