University loses damages appeal

The Court of Appeal in Belfast has upheld an industrial tribunal award of £32,000 in damages to a woman who suffered unlawful…

The Court of Appeal in Belfast has upheld an industrial tribunal award of £32,000 in damages to a woman who suffered unlawful sexual discrimination at the hands of the University of Ulster, writes Suzanne Breen. Ms Jennifer Fryers was granted the damages after a lengthy legal battle.

An industrial tribunal ruled that the university had unlawfully discriminated against Ms Fryers by failing to short-list her for the position of director of human resources. The university then asked the Court of Appeal to reduce the compensation. However, the court has upheld the damages award.