WRC recommends worker be considered for permanent gritting role

The Workplace Relations Commission recommended that a worker’s application for a permanent winter gritting-driver position be considered after the role is advertised. The decision was dated 29 September 2022. The worker said he had driven the Enniscorthy salting route since 2017 and sought permanent appointment. The employer said the post was held by a driver temporarily accommodated in another role and that more senior drivers might apply. The adjudicator found the employer had to protect that driver’s full-time day role but had no obligation to keep open weather-dependent overtime work. If the worker succeeds in applying, he should be appointed permanently; if the other driver returns to driving, the worker must leave the position he is covering.