WRC awards childcare worker €1,960 for constructive dismissal

The WRC found that Cos Clubs Afterschool Centre constructively and unfairly dismissed Mihaela Brinza, awarding her €1,960 compensation. The decision was dated 13 May 2024. Brinza resigned after saying she felt isolated and unsupported while complaints against her were investigated. The centre said it had engaged an outside investigator and argued that she had not used its grievance process before resigning. The adjudicator found Brinza’s resignation letter gave sufficient notice of a grievance, and that the manager failed to address her concerns or assess whether staff could work normally during the investigation. Brinza found another job within days, and the award took account of potential redundancy rights after two years’ service.