Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Christchurch
Reference No [2013] NZERA Christchurch 151
Hearing date 16 Jul 2013
Determination date 26 July 2013
Member G J Wood
Representation M King ; M Guest
Location Christchurch
Parties Newman v Hard Left Ltd
Summary UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL – Constructive dismissal – Applicant claimed unjustifiably dismissed by respondent – Whether respondent suggested applicant retire – Applicant received national superannuation – Applicant alleged to have treated customer in rude and dismissive manner – Applicant not prepared properly for lunches – Respondent queried applicant about possibility of retirement – Abusive language from applicant – Applicant walked out of shift - Applicant believed dismissed - Respondent circulated email regarding applicant
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND –;UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL: No breach of duty raising complaint with applicant. Suggestion applicant retire breach of duty. Not appropriate to suggest employee retire when concerns of performance nature. Applicant not employee at time email sent. Applicant constructively dismissed. REMEDIES: 25% contributory conduct. $3,000 compensation appropriate.
Result Application granted ; Contributory conduct (25%) ; Compensation for humiliation etc ($3,000) ; Costs reserved
Main Category Personal Grievance
Cases Cited Boobyer v Good Health Wanganui Ltd unreported, Goddard CJ, 24 Feb 1994, WEC3/94;Nimon & Sons Ltd v Buckley (2007) 4 NZELR 743;Wallace & Cooper Ltd t/a Andar Holdings v Irvine [2013] NZEmpC 86
Number of Pages 9
PDF File Link: 2013_NZERA_Christchurch_151.pdf [pdf 172 KB]