An Auckland sauna company owner is all steamed up about an Employment Relations Authority (ERA) decision awarding more than $8000 to a worker.
The ERA has awarded Martin Clark $4000 in lost wages, $3000 for hurt feelings, $750 in unpaid wages, $116 in holiday pay, $500 as a penalty and sundry smaller amounts.
Mr Clark argued he was dismissed unjustifiably by The Swedish Sauna Company Ltd.
However, the company said Mr Clark was never hired but was given a work trial to test his abilities, which were found to be unsatisfactory.
Owner Bede Burgoyne told APNZ he had closed the business and he would go to jail before he paid a cent.
He said it was "virtually impossible to employ in this country".
Mr Clark defended his performance abilities and the ERA accepted his view because the company did not appear at the hearing.
Mr Clark was dismissed without any form of disciplinary procedure having been undertaken, the ERA said.
The company did not have a written employment agreement with Mr Clark so could not invoke the trial period regime in the Employment Relations Act.
The act prevents an employee from bringing a personal grievance in specified circumstances.
NZN