Tribunal Claim Against County Chemist is Dismissed

An Employment Tribunal has unanimously thrown out an unfair dismissal claim against Bowmans Chemists (Carlisle) Ltd.

In January 2006 a Carlisle Employment Tribunal heard Margaret Irving's claims that she had been constructively dismissed from Bowmans Chemists after incidents of bullying and what the pharmacy assistant described as "humiliating" comments.

However, in their judgment this week, the Tribunal is unequivocal in dismissing the claim against the 90 year old family firm.

The Tribunal concluded that the instructions of locum pharmacist, Mark Magas were "reasonable, routine and appropriate" and the subsequent actions of Managing Director, Alyson Young did not constitute bullying, but were "reasonable". An enquiry later carried out by the owner of the business, Bob Bowman is described as "genuine and comprehensive".

Joanne Stronach, an employment lawyer and Partner from Carlisle's Burnetts Solicitors acted for Bowmans Chemists. She said, "I was quietly confident that Bowmans Chemists would win this case. They had been completely reasonable, followed proper procedures and acted in good faith. Importantly, they were also consistent and clear with their evidence."
 
Bob Bowman said, "I'm very relieved that a year of mild anxiety, on all parts, is now over with a judgment on our side. I always knew it was a non – starter, but I am sad and disappointed that we ended up at a Tribunal."

6th March, 2006