A former employee of Apple who worked in the Cork operation of the company has been awarded $5,275 for unfair dismissal after traces of an explosive were found in his bag.
According to a recent news report, the complainant wishes to clear his name over accusations that trace amounts of the explosive Tetryl were found in his personal bag.
In December of 2018, the accused claims that he denied permission for Apple security to inspect his bag upon entering a company Christmas party located at a local football stadium. Six days later, a swab test of his workstation, as well as the power button for his computer, revealed trace amounts of the chemical in question.
No Legal Right to Search Bag
Prior to the verdict of the Labour Court, the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) had ruled in favour of the employee. In its ruling, the WRC stated that the company had no legal right to search his bag, and instead should have contacted the police.
Additionally, the WRC said that it was “incredible” that traces of Tetryl were only found at this workstation and on the power button of his computer given that these areas could have been touched by anyone.
Labelled as “Some Type of Criminal”
The complainant had himself contested the WRC ruling, believing that he was wrongly labelled as “some type of criminal” and wished to oppose this negative view of his character. He elaborated that he wanted to have his name cleared, and that his social circle within Apple had essentially disappeared as a result of this accusation and his subsequent dismissal.
Although the complainant originally sought to be reinstated by Apple, he acknowledges that this can no longer happen.
Damages were awarded to the man by the Labour Court for unfair dismissal, which Apple have not contested and were happy to pay the compensation amount.
*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.*
