Don't Make Andy Gray's Mistake, Employers Warned

Online, February 7, 2011 (Newswire.com) - DON'T MAKE ANDY GRAY'S MISTAKE, EMPLOYERS WARNED

Employers will be warned not to fall into the same trap as TV presenter Andy Gray at an event organised by Woolliscrofts Solicitors and accountants RSM Tenon.

The veteran Sky Sports pundit was sacked in January for making sexist comments, and is now taking legal advice on how to respond.

One of his options might be to take his former employers to a tribunal, which may cost them thousands of pounds if they are found to have dismissed him unfairly.

It's a predicament which all employers could face if they infringe the Equality Act 2010, according to employment law specialist David Ellis.

David Ellis said: "The Equality Act was introduced in October to bring all discrimination legislation under one umbrella.

"It increases the likelihood of claims for discrimination against age, gender, sexual orientation, race, religious beliefs or disability.

"Mr Gray may find himself on the opposite side of the action in this case, but if an employer were to make the same comments against a female member of staff, they could be sued.

"The legislation applies to comments which could be construed as 'banter', and may lead to a tribunal which could cost the employer many thousands of pounds."

There is no maximum limit to tribunal awards under the new legislation. The employer would also need to add legal costs to their bill.

David Ellis will discuss the main aspects of the Equality Act 2010 at the event, which takes place at the Best Western Moat House, Festival Park on Wednesday 9th March (8am-10am).

He said: "Employers need to be aware of the dangers, not least because people are now more aware of their rights, and in the current economic climate they are more inclined to take a claim to tribunal."

His 20-minute presentation will be followed by a discussion of the options available to employers in offering various employee benefits, for example salary sacrifice schemes, from a representative of RSM Tenon.

Breakfast and refreshments will be provided for delegates. Places are limited to 40.

To book your place, contact Alison Niebieszczanski at Woolliscrofts Solicitors on 01782 204000 or [email protected].

Media enquiries should be directed to Richard Swancott Associates on 01782 472035 or [email protected].

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