The Workplace Relations Commission awarded Karen Moloney €16,600 after finding her dismissal by T M Blinds Ltd was unfair. The decision was dated 22 March 2024.
Moloney had worked for the blind manufacturer for 28 years. The company said it closed its projects department because of debt recovery difficulties, low margins and the department’s small share of sales. Moloney said it had failed to consider other suitable roles despite her experience.
The adjudication officer found the company had not thoroughly considered alternatives, including possible roles in accounts or customer support. The officer also said the manner of consultation affected Moloney’s reaction and confidence in the process.
The award comprised €5,000 for losses up to the hearing and €11,600 for prospective income loss. The officer reduced the first amount from €9,990, finding Moloney had provided limited evidence of efforts to mitigate her losses.