A case for constructive dismissal taken by the former chief executive of Victim Support, Ms Lillian McGovern, against the organisation has been postponed until October.
The case was due to go ahead yesterday at the Employment Appeals Tribunal, but was put back for an extended sitting of four days starting on October 19th, on the application of both counsel for Ms McGovern and Victim Support.
It is understood there are up to 23 potential witnesses to be heard, 17 of whom are being called on behalf of Victim Support. However, counsel for the organisation, Mr Ercus Stewart SC, said he would try to reduce that number.
Details of Ms McGovern's complaint were not disclosed; however, her representative, Ms Mary Irvine SC, said they covered a four-year period, focusing particularly on nine months.
Ms McGovern left the organisation last autumn.
The chair of the tribunal, Mr Dermot MacCarthy, asked both counsel if there were any issues that could be disposed of at the sitting yesterday. However, both representatives said there were no points that could be agreed.
"Because of the nature of the claim, it is difficult to net down matters," Ms Irvine said.
Mr Stewart said there was "complete difference" between both parties.
