Former PwC Belfast employee settles discrimination claim for over €170,000

By Claudia Savage, Press Association

A former employee of a “Big 4” accounting company in Belfast has settled a discrimination case for £150,000 (€172,170).

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, 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.

The woman then submitted a formal grievance feeling “stunned and upset” by what she believed were “unfair and discriminatory remarks”.

She claimed this then led 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 against this decision was unsuccessful.

As part of the settlement she ended her employment with PwC.

The woman, who has remained anonymous, said she dedicated her working life to PwC and was “heartbroken”.

“I never imagined this is how my career would end after such loyal service,” she said.

“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.”

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.”

In settling the case, PwC expressed regret for the upset and distress experienced by their former employee and provided a reference, as well as reaffirming its strong commitment to equality of opportunity in employment.

The case was settled without admission of liability.