The Labour Court recommended that the union accept Torc Great Southern’s offer of €10,000 to settle a worker’s severance claim. The recommendation was signed on 9 March 2004. The worker had been employed as a seasonal wash-up steward. The union said she had intended to return when her health allowed and had not received a letter confirming the end of her employment. Torc Great Southern said she had retired and accepted a retirement presentation. The Court said both sides contributed to confusion about her employment status. It noted that she remained unfit for work and her financial loss from the hotel’s closure was significantly less than that of other affected workers. The Court recommended an ex-gratia payment in full and final settlement.