A former UTV journalist has received £42,500 in settlement of cases in which she alleged sexual discrimination, victimisation, unfair dismissal and breaches of the Equal Pay Act. The reporter, Ms Sharon Hall, was supported by the North's Equality Commission.
UTV agreed its promotion procedures might not have provided Ms Hall with the opportunity to apply for or be considered for the post of senior journalist. The company accepted that comments were made about her that were unacceptable and inappropriate. UTV apologised to her for the comments and stated that she had been a valued member of staff who had discharged her duties at all times in a professional and efficient manner.
In addition to paying Ms Hall £42,500, the company agreed to liaise with the Equality Commission to ensure its recruitment, promotion, pay, grievance, complaints and victimisation policies and procedures were in accordance with equality legislation.
Ms Hall said she was delighted at the decision. "I know how hurtful and distressing it is to feel that you are being treated unfairly and that your work is undervalued because of your gender," she said.
"It is not an easy option to bring a case of discrimination against your employer and people who do so should know they are protected against unfair treatment or unfounded comments. I have turned from feeling like a victim to feeling like a victor."
The Equality Commission's Director of Legal Services, Ms Jennifer Greenfield, said the case highlighted problems with the treatment of people who bring complaints.
"Employers must ensure that all staff, particularly senior staff, know that the law protects complainants against victimisation."