WRC rejects Aircoach driver’s unfair dismissal claim

The Workplace Relations Commission rejected Gerard Nowlan’s claim that Aircoach unfairly dismissed him after an allegation that he used a mobile phone while driving a bus at Dublin Airport. Adjudication Officer Breiffni O’Neill’s decision was dated 12 February 2026. Aircoach said CCTV showed Nowlan using his phone for 22 seconds while the bus was moving, including moments when he had one or no hands on the steering wheel. Nowlan challenged the investigation and use of CCTV, and said he had handled the phone to turn off its light. The WRC found the employer’s process fair and dismissal proportionate, and ruled that he was not unfairly dismissed.