Hospital worker who said she had to put up with 'toxic' behaviour wins €58k

A hospital clerical worker at Mayo University Hospital has been awarded €58,681.60 by the Workplace Relations Commission following a constructive dismissal complaint. The adjudicator found that the hospital's grievance management process was fundamentally flawed after the worker was directed into mediation regarding a complaint made against her without being provided a copy of the grievance itself. The worker learned of the complaint only when meeting the complainant at a manager's direction. Despite repeated requests, hospital management did not furnish her with details of the allegations. The adjudicator concluded that a reasonable employer would have concluded the grievance procedure was defective and that the worker had no realistic option but to resign in the circumstances. She quit in March 2024 after a period of sick leave. The compensation comprised €41,831 reflecting loss of pension entitlements following 23 years of service, with the remainder covering lost earnings and related losses under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977.