Decision Date: 2 July 2025
Adjudication Officer: Bríd Deering
Award: Claim Rejected (no compensation)
Legislation: Employment Equality Acts 1998 – 2021
Grounds: Alleged Racial Discrimination, Harassment, and Victimisation

Case Summary

Mr Artur Czopek, a Polish national employed part-time as a sales assistant at TK Maxx Newbridge since 2017, alleged that he was excluded from workplace “birthday whip-rounds” because of his nationality.
He claimed that collections were organised only for Irish employees and that, after he complained, his shifts were reduced and his manager harassed him during medical leave.

The employer denied all allegations, stating that whip-rounds were voluntary staff initiatives celebrating milestone birthdays (18th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 65th) or long-service events (5, 10, 15 years).

Evidence & Findings

• Documentation showed 17 collections since 2020, 11 birthdays and 6 service milestones.
• Recipients included a Latvian, a Polish, and a Russian employee, disproving the claim that only Irish staff benefited.
• Mr Czopek turned 40 in 2019, before the collection practice began in 2020.
• No evidence supported his claims of reduced shifts or harassment.
• Adjudicator Bríd Deering ruled that the complainant failed to establish any prima facie case of discrimination or victimisation.

Outcome: All complaints under the Employment Equality Acts were rejected.

Bloom Consultancy Takeaways

Evidence first: Allegations must be backed by objective proof, records, comparators, or witness statements.
Fair practice reviews: Employers should periodically check that informal social initiatives (like staff gifts or collections) do not inadvertently exclude individuals or groups.
Manager awareness: Even voluntary, staff-led activities can become equality issues if managers appear to endorse or ignore perceived bias.
Document responses: When complaints arise, respond formally, document discussions, and explain objective criteria to prevent escalation.
Balanced workplace culture: Foster inclusivity in social and recognition practices through Bloom Academy’s Equality & Diversity training, ensuring fairness extends beyond pay and promotion.

This article is based on public decisions of the Workplace Relations Commission and reported case summaries from Irish media sources. It is intended as a commentary on HR compliance issues relevant to employers and HR professionals in Ireland.