The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) awarded John Baker €4,000 after finding that Doyles Veg Prep Limited discriminated against him by failing to engage properly about workplace measures to support his return. The decision was dated 17 January 2023.
Baker complained that the food-preparation employer failed to provide reasonable accommodation for his disability. He said he needed a dry working environment without power-wash spray combined with chemicals. The company said it had sought medical information, referred him to occupational health and remained open to facilitating his return.
The officer found the company knew about Baker’s disability and that a medical report said he could return in a role without heavy manual handling, dust or chemicals. The company had not shown it examined whether such measures could be provided. The finding concerned the six months before the complaint was lodged.
The officer also found that other workplace grievances, rather than a failure to accommodate his disability, were keeping Baker from work at the time of the decision. In setting compensation, the officer took account of Baker’s contribution to the situation through difficulties maintaining a proper working relationship with the employer. The company was also directed to review its disability accommodation policies and train management on updates.