Labour Court recommends €6,500 for worker unfairly dismissed by Glenpatrick Watercoolers

The Labour Court recommended that Glenpatrick Watercoolers Ltd pay a worker €6,500 after finding he was treated unfairly in the way his employment was terminated. Its recommendation was signed on 31 August 2015. The worker said he was never told his job was at risk and was called to a disciplinary meeting without prior notice or representation. The company said it had concerns about his performance and felt it had no alternative to dismissal. The Court found the employer failed to follow the Code of Practice on Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures. The worker was unrepresented at a meeting called without notice, and the employer considered incidents beyond those listed in the invitation. The Court said probation did not remove the obligation to act fairly. The €6,500 was recommended in full and final settlement of claims arising from the dismissal.