The Workplace Relations Commission awarded mechanical fitter John O’Brien €31,500 after finding Thermo Fisher Scientific Cork Ltd unfairly dismissed him over damage caused when waste oil was put in an apprentice’s tool bag. WRC Adjudication Officer Thomas O’Driscoll dated the decision 27 November 2024.
O’Brien said he acted in reaction to a prank in which his phone was hidden and did not intend to cause damage. The company said the damage was deliberate and dismissal was proportionate, citing an active warning. The adjudicator found the oil incident unacceptable but said a lesser sanction should have been imposed, given the prank and workplace horseplay. The award reflected a 50% contribution by O’Brien to his dismissal. Three complaints under the Organisation of Working Time Act were withdrawn.