Pole sues former Scottish employer over language ban

Magdalena Konieczna was dismissed from Whitelink Seafoods in Fraserburgh, north east Scotland, in June 2014.

She claims that problems began shortly after all staff were ordered to communicate only in English.

Valerie Ritchie, who fired Konieczna, told the tribunal that the new policy was intended to improve safety while staff packed fish.

However, when pressed by the tribunal, she acknowledged that if an accident were about to occur, the foreign language ban could theoretically endanger some workers.

“If somebody was about to lose their hand I would not discipline them for speaking their language,” she said.

“But if someone was showing a disregard you would have to resort to disciplinary action.”

The case has been adjourned while the tribunal waits to hear evidence from a key witness. (nh)

Source: pressandjournal.co.uk