| Restrictions | OK |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Employment Relations Authority - Auckland |
| Reference No | [2013] NZERA Auckland 294 |
| Hearing date | 19 Feb 2013 |
| Determination date | 10 July 2013 |
| Member | K J Anderson |
| Representation | W Reid, R Rolston ; M Beech, E Smith |
| Location | Tauranga |
| Parties | Bode-Patterson v Hammond-Smith and Smith t/a I Love Merino Ltd |
| Summary | UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL – Redundancy – Applicant claimed unjustifiably dismissed by respondent – Respondent decided to consolidate two-part time positions into one full-time position – Respondent discussed “question of business hardship” with applicant and other employee – Applicant invited to apply for new position – Whether applicant proposed sharing position – Applicant sent letter requesting two weeks to prepare application – Position given to other employee – Whether decision predetermined – Sales person |
| Abstract | AUTHORITY FOUND –;UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL: Respondent needed to address cost structure of business. Respondent failed to consult with applicant or provide access to information relevant to continuation of applicant’s employment. Applicant presented with fait accompli. Respondent should have considered applicant’s request for extension of time to prepare application. Unreasonable to appoint other employee to position without discussing applicant’s request for extension. Dismissal unjustified. REMEDIES: No contributory conduct. Respondent to pay applicant reimbursement of lost wages, quantum to be determined. $6,000 compensation appropriate. |
| Result | Application granted ; Reimbursement of lost wages (quantum to be determined) ; Compensation for humiliation etc ($6,000) ; Costs reserved |
| Main Category | Personal Grievance |
| Statutes | ERA;ERA s4;ERA s4(1A)(c);ERA s103A;ERA s124;ERA s128 |
| Cases Cited | Brake v Grace Team Accounting Ltd (2013) 10 NZELC 79-026;Coutts Cars Ltd v Baguley [2001] ERNZ 660 ; [2002] 2 NZLR 533;G N Hale & Sons Ltd v Wellington etc Caretakers etc IUOW (1990) ERNZ Sel Cas 843 ; [1991] 1 NZLR 151;Rittson-Thomas (t/as Totara Hills Farm) v Davidson (2013) 10 NZELR 391;Simpsons Farms Ltd v Aberhart [2006] ERNZ 825 |
| Number of Pages | 19 |
| PDF File Link: | 2013_NZERA_Auckland_294.pdf [pdf 238 KB] |