WRC rejects bar customer’s discrimination complaint over vaccination entry rule

The Workplace Relations Commission found Stephen Delaney’s discrimination complaint against Matt The Miller Ltd T/A Matt the Millers Bar & Restaurant not well founded in a decision dated 22 August 2023. Delaney said he was refused entry to the bar’s indoor premises on 26 July 2021 after declining to show evidence of vaccination. The bar said it was following national guidance and offered to serve him outside or in its smoking area. The adjudicator found Delaney had not shown that he had a disability within the meaning of the Equal Status Act, so the disability ground was outside the adjudicator’s jurisdiction. Delaney also failed to establish a prima facie case, meaning sufficient initial evidence of discrimination, on religion or race. The complaint was found not well founded.