Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Auckland
Reference No [2017] NZERA Auckland 287
Hearing date 12-Sep-17
Determination date 14 September 2017
Member T Tetitaha
Representation M Pretorius (in person) ; L Looi
Location Auckland
Parties Pretorius v Fit Pit Ltd
Summary PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE – Whether applicant permanent or casual employee – UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL – Applicant claimed unjustifiably dismissed by respondent – Fitness Instructor and Sales Consultant
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND –;PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE: No signed employment agreement. Both parties produced unsigned agreement that referred to employee as casual. Applicant engaged in a regular work pattern where respondent expected her to be present as per roster allocations. Applicant permanent part-time employee. UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL: Respondent’s reason provided for immediate dismissal did not justify dismissal in and of itself. No evidence to suggest concern raised with applicant prior to dismissal. No investigation of concern. Applicant given no opportunity to respond or seek legal advice about concern. Reasonable employer could not justify dismissal giving verbal warnings the same day without following lawful process. Dismissal unjustified. REMEDIES: No contributory conduct. Respondent to pay applicant $1,244 reimbursement of lost wages. $2,000 compensation appropriate.
Result Application granted ; Reimbursement of lost wages ($1,224) ; Compensation for humiliation etc ($2,000) ; No order for costs
Main Category Personal Grievance
Statutes ERA s103A
Number of Pages 7
PDF File Link: 2017_NZERA_Auckland_287_amended.pdf [pdf 107 KB]