Labour Court dismisses Tom Barrett’s religion discrimination appeal

The Labour Court dismissed Tom Barrett’s appeal against the Equality Officer’s decision on his religion discrimination claim against the Department of Defence. In its determination dated 20 May 2008, the Court found that he had not shown a particular detriment because of his beliefs or identified a discriminatory act within the six-month period. Barrett, who described himself as a Secular Humanist, alleged discrimination in promotion, working conditions and harassment. The Department argued that his allegations did not connect workplace events to a protected ground and fell outside the time limit. The Court agreed with the Equality Officer and dismissed the appeal. A separate victimisation claim was retained for investigation by the Equality Tribunal and was not decided in this appeal.