WRC declines to recommend in worker’s probation dismissal dispute

The WRC declined to recommend in favour of a worker who challenged her dismissal during probation. The recommendation was dated 17 August 2023. The worker said a manager had spoken of wanting a younger workforce and described bullying, intimidation and a lack of appeal rights. The employer said her work quality and accuracy fell short, extended her probation and dismissed her after repeated errors. The adjudicator relied on a Court of Appeal ruling that an employer may terminate a probationary employee without fair procedures when the contract allows it and adequate notice is given.