A woman who had worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers Services Ltd (PwC) for more than 40 years has settled her case of age and disability discrimination against the company for £150,000.
The case was supported by the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.
The woman who worked as an Executive Support Assistant, said that a senior colleague unexpectedly raised concerns about her knowledge of new technology. In addition, she says she was asked if training was something she was interested in at her age.
She also reported being told that, because of her length of service, she was just working towards her pension, and that she looked tired and should consider taking time off for caring responsibilities.
Stunned and upset by what she believed were unfair and discriminatory remarks, she submitted a formal grievance.
Following this, the woman says she was subjected to unjustified performance criticisms by senior colleagues, despite having received consistently strong performance reviews over many years.
The internal grievance investigation concluded that she had experienced harassment but found that it did not amount to unlawful discrimination. The woman was later told that her appeal of this decision was unsuccessful.
The woman agreed to end her employment with PwC as part of her settlement agreement.
Speaking about her experience, the woman said: “I dedicated my working life to PwC. I’m heartbroken. I never imagined this is how my career would end after such loyal service. It has been an extremely distressing and stressful experience. I felt compelled to bring this case, not only to seek justice for myself, but to act as a voice for others who may suffer in silence. I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received. I now wish to move on with my life.”
Geraldine McGahey, Chief Commissioner, Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, said: “This long-serving employee believes her age and caring responsibilities became an issue for her employer, leading to this situation.
“In Northern Ireland, it is unlawful to discriminate against employees because of their age. Older workers bring valuable experience, skills, and insight to the workforce.
“The Commission provides advice and guidance to help employers comply with our equality laws. All employees, regardless of their age, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect in the workplace,” concluded Ms McGahey.
In settling the case, PwC expressed regret for the upset and distress experienced by their former employee and provided a reference. The company reaffirmed its strong commitment to equality of opportunity in employment and undertook to ensure that its management and staff are aware of their obligations under equality law. They confirmed they will work with the Equality Commission to review their equal opportunities policies, procedures, and practices.
The case was settled without admission of liability.
