The Labour Court dismissed Zita Sweeney’s appeal against the Equality Officer’s finding that HSE Midlands Area had not discriminated against her on grounds of gender. The Court’s determination was dated 15 October 2008.
Sweeney, an Emergency Medical Technician based at Athlone Ambulance Station, said the HSE discriminated against her during her pregnancy by removing her from ambulance duties, not offering suitable work in the ambulance service and placing her on health and safety leave. The Court found the risk assessment required her removal from EMT duties and accepted the HSE’s reasons for rejecting the alternatives she proposed. It found that modified duties at Riada House were safe, matched her experience and were available without loss of pay or allowances.