Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Auckland
Reference No [2013] NZERA Auckland 483
Hearing date 15 Aug 2013
Determination date 21 October 2013
Member R A Monaghan
Representation P Mulitalo ; C Eggleston
Parties Fuifui v Pinepac Group Ltd
Summary UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL – Serious misconduct – Applicant claimed unjustifiably dismissed by respondent – Applicant had arrangement that colleague (‘V’) would drive applicant to and from work – V failed to pick up applicant – Applicant one hour late to work - Alleged applicant struck V with stick – Incident observed by supervisor – Whether applicant intended to be playful – Applicant sent home – Applicant attended disciplinary meeting - Supervisor consulted with senior manager about decision - Applicant dismissed - Saw machine operator
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND –;UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL: V’s actions explained applicant’s anger but did not excuse behaviour. Respondent required to undertake investigation. Likely applicant warned dismissal possible. No evidence of pre-determination. Process fair and reasonable. Reasonable to conclude applicant assaulted V. Respondent entitled to conclude serious misconduct occurred. Dismissal justified.
Result Application dismissed ; Costs reserved
Main Category Personal Grievance
Statutes ERA s103A
Number of Pages 9
PDF File Link: 2013_NZERA_Auckland_483.pdf [pdf 237 KB]