The Minister for Justice may appeal a decision of the Equality Tribunal which could have major implications for his Garda civilianisation strategy. The tribunal found that female civilian clerical officers were discriminated against by the Garda Síochána.
Two groups of female clerical workers took discrimination claims, one relating to work in 2000, the second to work in 2005. They claimed that they should be paid the same as male gardaí doing the same work. The Garda Síochána disputed that the work was the same and claimed that there were reasons other than gender for the difference in pay.
Seven of the eight claims dating from 2000 were upheld. One of the 2000 claims was dismissed, as were all the 2005 claims.
In a statement, Minister for Justice Michael McDowell said the case was a very important one. He emphasised that, as the Minister with responsibility for equality, he was mindful of his responsibilities as an employer in this regard.
He added: "I am seeking legal advice and once I have received that advice I will consider the options at my disposal, including the possibility of appealing the relevant cases to the Labour Court."
The tribunal also upheld another claim of discrimination, this time on the ground of disability. A man suffered from depression and had difficulties with timekeeping as a result, leading to disciplinary sanction. The equality officer found that this, without allowing for any discussion, constituted discrimination, and the man was awarded €6,000.
The tribunal upheld five of the 13 cases taken under the Equal Status Act, which prohibits discrimination in the provision of goods and services.
Three of the five cases concerned Travellers denied service in a pub and one concerned a Traveller told to leave a shop at a checkout because some of the fruit and vegetables had not been weighed.
Compensation awards ranged between €200 and €500.