Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Auckland
Reference No [2013] NZERA Auckland 106
Hearing date 19 - 21 Nov 2012
Determination date 28 March 2013
Member J Crichton
Representation C Boell ; A Russell
Location Auckland
Parties Jones v Waitemata District Health Board
Summary UNJUSTIFIED DISADVANTAGE – Applicant claimed unjustifiably disadvantaged by respondent’s investigation process and demotion – Multiple complaints of bullying made against applicant – Whether complainants collaborated and should have been investigated independently - Whether investigator biased – Whether appropriate to look at past behaviour – Alternative positions offered to applicant - Applicant sought reinstatement – Clinical charge nurse
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND-;UNJUSTIFIED DISADVANTAGE: Appropriate for respondent to investigate complaints and conduct single inquiry. Applicant unhelpful in investigation. No bias. Accessing personnel file necessary for full investigation. Applicant removed from position as behaviour incompatible with role. Appropriate for respondent to remove applicant from position of responsibility and offer alternative role. Applicant not unjustifiably disadvantaged by respondent’s investigation process or demotion.
Result Application dismissed ; Costs reserved
Main Category Personal Grievance
Statutes ERA s103(5) - ERA s103A – ERA s103A(3) - ERA s103A(5)
Cases Cited Angus v Ports of Auckland Ltd (No 2) [2011] ERNZ 466;Clear v Waikato District Health Board [2008] ERNZ 646;Waikato District Health Board v Clear [2010] NZCA 305
Number of Pages 19
PDF File Link: 2013_NZERA_Auckland_106.pdf [pdf 289 KB]