Religious discrimination

Religious discrimination

An interesting case published today appears to show the appeal tribunal beginning to tire over sensitive employees.

The case in question concerns a newsroom, where an employee shouted “What’s happened to the f#cking Pope?” and a Catholic sub editor took offence.

The Appeal Tribunal ruled that this was NOT harassment.

The reasoning appears to be that it was not done with any intention to offend and it was not said on the grounds of the sub editors religion. The important point from this case is that the purpose of the alleged harrasor,   while not conclusive on its own, is relevant in determining whether harassment has taken place. Therefore employers faced with such allegations in internal hearings should address the purpose of any comments as a matter of course.

The full judgement, if light reading is desired, is available by following this link:

http://www.bailii.org/uk/cases/UKEAT/2013/1305_12_1701.html

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