Soldier wins discrimination case

Equality Commissioner Joan Harbison welcomed the ruling

Damages of over £30,000 have been paid to a member of the Territorial Army for suffering sectarian harassment and discrimination for more than 11 years in Northern Ireland.

The Fair Employment Tribunal awarded the part-time Catholic soldier damages after finding he had been passed over for promotion with the post going to a candidate less qualified.

The man, whose name was withheld, was awarded £32,500 for enduring harassment which included sectarian jokes and quips.

Soldiers sang loyalist songs in front of him along with songs which had religious and political references.

The tribunal ruled that even though the behaviour, which the man did not complain about and was considered banter, still had an impact on him.

It also ruled the part-time soldier's experiences were indicative of a culture which existed in the Territorial Army and it highlighted the importance of an effective Equal Opportunities Policy.

This case emphasises how important it is for all employers to ensure that they promote a good and harmonious working environment Joan Harbison Equality Commission

Welcoming the decision, Equality Commission Chief Commissioner Joan Harbison said employers needed to recognise the importance of equal opportunities in the workplace.

"The Ministry of Defence has the same responsibilities towards their staff as any other employer," she said.

"This case emphasises how important it is for all employers to ensure that they promote a good and harmonious working environment and an atmosphere in which no employee feels under threat or intimidated because of their religious belief or political opinion.

"It is particularly important that employers recognise the need to put in place practical measures which will give effect to this, such as, equal opportunity policies and support them with good relevant training on equal opportunities issues."