The Workplace Relations Commission recommended €9,000 compensation for a worker dismissed despite a permanent contract that expressly said probation did not apply. The recommendation was dated 22 October 2025.
The worker was employed as a multi-task attendant. He was dismissed after the health service provider held a probation review, citing attendance concerns. The provider said the no-probation term in his contract had been included by human error.
The officer found that the provider acted unfairly by imposing probation contrary to the contract and should have engaged with the worker and his union when the error came to light. She also found that it bypassed its own procedures: there was no disciplinary hearing, the worker was denied representation and an appeal, and alternatives to dismissal were not considered.
The officer recommended €9,000 in full and final settlement of the industrial relations dispute. The worker’s two complaints under the Unfair Dismissals Acts were withdrawn.