Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Christchurch
Reference No [2015] NZERA Christchurch 70
Hearing date 27 May 2015
Determination date 29 May 2015
Member Christine Hickey
Representation L Acland ; S Holtham
Location Nelson
Parties Hunter v Mot Hot Roasts Ltd
Summary UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL – Redundancy – Applicant claimed unjustifiably dismissed by respondent – Summary dismissal – ARREARS OF WAGES – Applicant sought arrears of wages – Whether employment agreement (“EA”) stated applicant to work 37 hours per week - Chef and waiter
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND –UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL: Respondent dismissed applicant partially due to performance concerns. Redundancy not genuine. Respondent failed to sufficiently investigate concerns, raise concerns with applicant, give applicant opportunity to respond or genuinely consider applicant’s explanations. Dismissal unjustified. REMEDIES: No contributory conduct. $5,000 compensation appropriate.ARREARS OF WAGES: Applicant’s EA stated applicant to work 37 hours per week, although respondent had not signed EA. If no EA, applicant full time worker so respondent would have to pay applicant based on 40 hours per week. Applicant had not been working 37 hours per week, but had not agreed to reduce hours, so still had to be paid at 37 hours per week. Respondent to pay applicant $1,105 arrears of wages.
Result Applications granted; Compensation for humiliation etc ($5,000) ; Arrears of wages ($1,105.35) ; Costs reserved
Main Category Personal Grievance
Statutes ERA s103A;ERA s103A(3);Legal Services Act 2011 s45;Legal Services Act 2011 s46
Number of Pages 7
PDF File Link: 2015_NZERA_Christchurch_70.pdf [pdf 177 KB]