Two Human Rights Complaints Settled

Two human rights complaints have recently been settled. The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission and the parties involved settled before the complaints were heard by a board of inquiry.

Joyce MacLean of Pugwash alleged that she was discriminated against by her employer, Seagull Pewter and Silversmiths Ltd., also of Pugwash. She had first complained in April 1999 that Seagull Pewter had discriminated against her because she was pregnant, because of her physical disability and because of her family status.

Seagull Pewter agreed to pay her $4,100 in damages. Ms. MacLean and the commission acknowledge that Seagull Pewter does not, by settlement, admit any liability to Ms. MacLean and that the company has not breached any provision of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.

The chair of the board of inquiry, Richard Evans, approved the settlement as part of his decision.

Theresa MacNeil of Truro first alleged in 1999 that she had been sexually harassed by Adam Doyle of Corridor Co-op, in Shubenacadie. All parties acknowledge the occurrence of an incident, for which Doyle apologized and which Corridor dealt with appropriately, once they had learned of it.

The complainant and the commission acknowledge that the incident is unlikely to support a finding of discrimination and harassment. Ms. MacNeil has withdrawn her complaint.

The chair of the board, Richard Goodman, approved the settlement agreement as part of his decision.

Boards of inquiry are the final step in Nova Scotia's human rights complaint process. Although the commission decides if a board will be appointed, the chief judge of the Provincial Court nominates the chairperson. Boards of inquiry are independent public hearings into complaints of discrimination.