Mediation successful in dispute between CHI and business manager

High Court Reporter

Mediation of an employment dispute between Children's Health Ireland (CHI) and a business manager has been successful, the High Court heard.

However, the outcome is "subject to various approvals" from CHI before it is completed, senior counsel Richard Keane told the court on Thursday.

Keane is representing Anita Little, who had obtained undertakings in court from CHI not to take steps to dismiss her as business manager over what she claimed was an instruction by her superiors to delist 10 patients from the CHI spinal surgery waiting list.

She said her purported dismissal followed a flawed investigation and disciplinary hearing in which she was, among other things, deprived of her right to call witnesses in her defence, introduce exculpatory documentary evidence or challenge erroneous findings of fact or examine witnesses.

Keane said that as a result of encouragement from the court to mediate, it had taken place four weeks ago and was successful. But, counsel said, it is subject to various approvals from CHI, but his client is anxious that it be completed as soon as possible.

Counsel suggested the case be put back for a short time so that the momentum of the mediation can be maintained.

Lorna Lynch SC, for CHI, said the approval is awaited, but as Little remains on the payroll, she suggested an adjournment to just before the Easter break.

Judge Brian Cregan said he would put it in for mention in two weeks "to keep the pressure on".