A Wellington-based perishable-food truck driver has been awarded almost $20,000 for unjustified dismissal after he was sacked for allegedly stalking and sexually harassing staff at a restaurant which he delivered to.
Stonecold Distributors Limited a food products supplier and distributor in Tawa had employed Christopher Paul as its delivery driver according to NZME.
NZME reports that Paul claimed before the Employment Relations Authority that he was unjustifiably dismissed by Stonecold Distributors in 2011 after it was alleged that he had sexually harassed a customer, an allegation which he continues to deny.
The authority was informed that Stonecold Distributors owner and director Terence Johnston had received a complaint from the manager of Central North Island restaurant where Paul had made deliveries.
According to the authority the restaurant manager alleged that Paul was a “creep” who was “hitting on all the staff” and they did not want to deal with him again.
Johnston called a meeting with Paul, who attended with his lawyer. Paul was given a written summary of findings from Johnston’s investigation into the alleged misconduct.
Until then says the ERA, Paul was not aware Johnston was concerned his alleged actions might have damaged the reputation of the business.
Paul was not given the opportunity before the meeting to prepare a response to the allegations and was dismissed at the meeting. He was awarded $8000 for hurt and humiliation and $11,290 for lost wages.
