| Restrictions | OK |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Employment Relations Authority - Christchurch |
| Reference No | [2013] NZERA Christchurch 90 |
| Hearing date | 9 May 2013 |
| Determination date | 16 May 2013 |
| Member | H Doyle |
| Representation | C McDonald ; T McGinn |
| Location | Christchurch |
| Parties | Livingston v G L Freeman Holdings Ltd |
| Summary | ARREARS OF HOLIDAY PAY - Applicant sought arrears of holiday pay - Applicant failed to work out notice period - Whether forfeiture clause in parties employment agreement enforceable - Whether clause genuine estimate of loss caused - COUNTERCLAIM -BREACH OF CONTRACT - PENALTY - Respondent sought damages and penalty for applicant's failure to work out notice period - Receptionist |
| Abstract | ARREARS OF HOLIDAY PAY: Forfeiture clause penalty to compel performance rather than a genuine estimate of loss caused. Clause not enforceable. Applicant entitled to money withheld from final pay. Respondent to pay applicant $1,943 arrears of holiday pay.;COUNTERCLAIM - BREACH OF CONTRACT - PENALTY: No evidence of actual damage resulting from applicant's failure to work out notice period. No damages. Applicant aware of notice obligation. $500 penalty appropriate. |
| Result | Applications partially granted; Arrears of wages ($1943.50); Penalty ($250)(payable to respondent)($250)(payable to Crown); Costs reserved |
| Main Category | Arrears |
| Statutes | ERA s134 |
| Cases Cited | Dunlop Pneumatic Tyre Co Ltd v New Garage & Motor Co Ltd [1915] AC 79;Oztyrk v Gultekin (t/a Halikarnas Restaurant) [2004] 1 ERNZ 572 |
| Number of Pages | 12 |
| PDF File Link: | 2013_NZERA_Christchurch_90.pdf [pdf 182 KB] |