The Workplace Relations Commission awarded Dorinda Walsh €12,500 after finding her landlord, Martin Murray, discriminated against her by failing to complete a Housing Assistance Payment application. The WRC decision was dated 25 May 2023.
Walsh said Dublin City Council told her she had to transfer from rent supplement to HAP and that she repeatedly asked Murray to complete the form. Murray denied discrimination and said he wanted to verify his obligations before proceeding.
Adjudication Officer Elizabeth Spelman found Walsh credible and said she had established a prima facie case of discrimination on the housing assistance ground. The officer found Murray’s delays and diversionary tactics did not rebut that case. The complaint was found well founded, and the compensation reflected the financial and other effects of the discrimination.