Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Christchurch
Reference No [2016] NZERA Christchurch 160
Hearing date 18 to 20 Jul 2016 (3 days)
Determination date 19 September 2016
Member R Larmer
Representation P Rachich, M Radich ; G Hill, G Gowland
Location Blenheim
Parties Bertogg v Catherine Devon Ryburn t/a Malborough Day Spa and Anor
Other Parties Marlborough Medi Spa Ltd
Summary PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE – Application for joinder – UNJUSTIFIED DISADVANTAGE – UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL – Constructive Dismissal – Applicant claimed unjustifiably disadvantaged by respondent’s actions – Applicant claimed constructively dismissed by respondent – Receptionist
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND -;PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE: Applicant in employment relationship with second respondent. First respondent not individually liable. No claim before Authority when first respondent was applicant’s employer. Application for joinder dismissed.;UNJUSTIFIED DISADVANTAGE – UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL: Trial period provision invalid. Respondent failed to advise applicant’s right to seek legal advice. Applicant’s lack of advice had adverse effect on view of employment situation. Hours of work not reduced. Respondent raised enquiries about stock discrepancies with all staff. Applicant’s stock duties and responsibilities remained the same. Applicant did not require more training. Second respondent not required to explain legal implications of limited liability company. Applicant unjustifiably disadvantaged by failure to advise about seeking independent advice. Applicant not disadvantaged by trial period provision, hours of work, stock enquiries, lack of explanation. Second respondent’s conduct did not coerce resignation. Applicant voluntarily resigned. No constructive dismissal. REMEDIES: No contributory conduct. $3,000 compensation for humiliation etc appropriate.
Result Application partially granted (unjustified disadvantage) ; Compensation for humiliation etc ($3,000) ; Applications dismissed (practice and procedure)(unjustified dismissal) ; Costs reserved
Main Category Personal Grievance
Statutes ERA s63A(2)(b);ERA s103A;ERA s123(1)(c)(i);ERA s124;ERA s134(2);ERA s134A
Number of Pages 14
PDF File Link: 2016_NZERA_Christchurch_160.pdf [pdf 190 KB]