A public service employer should apologise to a clerical worker and pay compensation equivalent to 20 weeks’ basic salary after a 15-month delay in resolving her grievance, a Workplace Relations Commission adjudication officer recommended in a decision dated 16 September 2025.
The worker said the delay caused distress, led her to take sick leave and undermined her confidence in the grievance process. The employer accepted that the delay was inexcusable and apologised.
The officer recommended six weeks’ basic pay for the impact on sick leave and a further 14 weeks for failing to follow the agreed policy. The sick leave record should not be amended, and the payment was recommended in full and final settlement if the worker accepts it. The original grievance need not be pursued further unless the employer chooses to do so.