The Workplace Relations Commission found a social worker’s unfair dismissal complaint was not well founded, upholding her dismissal after finding the Stage 4 disciplinary process was fair. The decision was dated 29 November 2016.
The social worker said she was dismissed after making protected disclosures and challenged the investigation and disciplinary process. Health sector argued that the complaint was outside the time limit, but adjudication officer John Walsh allowed an extension so it could be heard.
Walsh found that the worker knew what was being investigated, that the investigators were qualified and independent, and that she had opportunities to comment on interview notes and submit material. An independent appeal body also upheld the dismissal. The WRC found the Stage 4 process followed fair procedures.