The Labour Court rejected Niamh O’Dwyer’s discrimination complaint against Aer Lingus, finding no discrimination in relation to her resignation after she could not obtain part-time cabin crew work. The order was signed on 8 April 1998.
O’Dwyer argued that refusing her part-time work amounted to discrimination and constructive dismissal on grounds of sex and marital status. Aer Lingus said the scheme was open to all cabin crew and that wider access had to protect staffing, service and safety needs. The Court found no evidence of direct discrimination and held that the agreed 5% limit on part-time places was essential to the airline’s operational requirements. It rejected the claim as not well founded.