Article 48/2024

LabourEdge

What is the test to be applied when unfair discrimination is alleged on a listed ground in terms of s6(1) of the EEA?

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  • The answer to the above entails the test as set out in s11(1) of the EEA.
  • Step 1 entails that the employer must identify the specific listed ground and, if the employee fails to do so, the matter does not proceed to step 2.
  • Step 2 entails the employer discharging the onus on it to prove, on a balance of probabilities:
    • that the discrimination, as alleged, did not take place, or
    • if the discrimination did take place, that same is rational and not unfair or otherwise justifiable
    • if the employer discharges this onus, then the claim is dismissed for being bad in law – on the other hand, if the onus is not discharged, unfair discrimination on the listed ground has been established

How did the labour court, in Simunye Workers Forum v Registrar of Labour Relations, per Van Niekerk J, in terms of s111(3) of the LRA, on appeal, deal with the decision of the registrar refusing the application of the aforesaid trade union?

How do procedural fairness requirements relating to dismissals based upon misconduct (as well as incapacity), contained in the 1995 LRA, differ from the environment that preceded this Act?

The purpose of this article is to, firstly, analyse the latest developments in the above regard and, secondly, to determine some of the principles so applicable to each potential type of suspension.