ERA dismisses dispute over children's Christmas party

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A woman who was not invited to a work Christmas party because she did not have children says she lost her job after she argued with her boss about discrimination.

Ruth Foley learned she was one of only two staff members at debt collectors Auckland District Collections Ltd (ADCL) not invited to the children's Christmas party at Rainbow's End.

The ensuing dispute with her boss resulted in her taking a case for unjustified constructive dismissal to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA).

But yesterday the authority released its ruling and dismissed her claim.

ADCL managing director Simon Freeman told the Herald he had "no regrets" about the way he handled her complaints.

"To put something on solely for the children, to have it turn around in a year-and-a-half later ... to still be going through court has left me very disillusioned about humanity. It was very, very sad," he said.

Ms Foley first contacted the Human Rights Commission and voiced her anger to colleagues before meeting Mr Freeman.

Yesterday, Mr Freeman said he held no anger against Ms Foley.

"We're very, very happy with the decision. It was the correct decision, and a decision we were confident of achieving and receiving."

Ms Foley could not be reached for comment.