Dundalk Football Club has been ordered to pay €64,000 in compensation to its former football director, Brian Gartland, after the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ruled in his favour. The case arose from his dismissal in May 2024, which the tribunal found to be an act of whistleblower penalisation. Gartland had raised concerns about health and safety practices regarding the team’s schedule and player injuries, leading to his sacking.
Background of the Case
Brian Gartland’s dismissal came shortly after he voiced concerns regarding the club’s handling of player health. Specifically, he raised alarm over squad members being required to play “three days a week straight” after recovering from injury, which he deemed a health risk. Gartland made protected disclosures about these concerns in April 2024, shortly after a new manager took over the club. However, the WRC found that his employment was terminated in retaliation for these disclosures.
Tribunal Findings and Compensation Awarded
The tribunal, presided over by Conor Stokes, found Dundalk FC guilty of breaching multiple employment laws, including the Unfair Dismissals Act and the Terms of Employment (Information) Act. The WRC determined that Gartland’s dismissal was a direct result of his attempts to protect the players’ health by raising concerns about their workload. As a result, the tribunal awarded him compensation amounting to €64,433.90, which includes €52,629.62 for loss of earnings and €3,727.36 for failure to provide a written Terms of Employment.
The Impact of Gartland’s Dismissal
Gartland’s dismissal caused significant personal and professional distress. He expressed that the public nature of the dismissal, amplified by a brief and damaging press statement issued by Dundalk FC, tarnished his reputation, especially in Dundalk where he lived with his family. Gartland also faced abuse from local fans, further affecting his mental health. His solicitor, Ger Connolly, argued that the compensation should reflect not only Gartland’s financial losses but also the damage to his reputation and emotional distress.
Conclusion and Implications for Dundalk FC
The WRC’s ruling highlights the importance of protecting whistleblowers in the workplace and adhering to proper employment practices. Dundalk FC’s failure to provide a valid reason for Gartland’s dismissal and their lack of compliance with employment regulations has led to this substantial compensation payout. The case serves as a reminder to all employers, particularly in high-profile industries like professional sports, to follow fair processes and respect employees’ rights.