Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Christchurch
Reference No [2015] NZERA Christchurch 124
Hearing date 27-May-15
Determination date 26 August 2015
Member Helen Doyle
Representation T MacKenzie, C Sell ; D Smith
Location Christchurch
Parties Baines v Daniel Smith Industries Ltd
Summary UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL – Serious Misconduct – Applicant claimed unjustifiably dismissed by respondent - Crane operator
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND –;UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL: Respondent failed to investigate allegations properly, failed to give applicant opportunity to explain and failed to give applicant all relevant information so applicant could not properly and sensibly answer allegations. Procedural defects also undermined susbstance of dismissal. Respondent had not previously told applicant that using phone while on crane could jeopardise employment relationship, despite prior warnings. Dismissal unjustified. REMEDIES: 20 per cent contributory conduct. Respondent to pay applicant $5,235 reimbursement of lost wages. $4,800 compensation appropriate.
Result Application granted ; Contributory conduct (20%) ; Reimbursement of lost wages ($5,235.23) ; Compensation for humiliation etc ($4,800) ; Costs reserved
Main Category Personal Grievance
Statutes ERA s103A;ERA s103A(3);ERA s103(4);ERA s103A(5)
Number of Pages 10
PDF File Link: 2015_NZERA_Christchurch_124.pdf [pdf 169 KB]