Complaint Alleging Bank of Ireland Discrimination Against Blacks Dismissed
Dublin: The Workplace Relations Commission has rendered a verdict dismissing a South African customer’s accusation of racially motivated denial of service against the Bank of Ireland, deeming the complaint unfounded.
Johnson Kelebeng’s allegation, which asserted a breach of the Equality Act 2000, was refuted based on testimonies from colleagues at the bank branch and additional evidence.
Adjudicator Brefney O’Neill observed that the testimony provided by three witnesses contradicted Kelebeng’s claim and held greater credibility.
Kelebeng alleged that bank staff refused him service, citing a purported policy against serving individuals of African descent. The incident purportedly occurred on July 23rd, when Kelebeng sought to open an account at the Bank of Ireland branch. However, testimony from three bank employees presented to the commission disputed the veracity of his complaint.
These witnesses also highlighted Kelebeng’s confrontational demeanour towards bank staff and the security guard.
Bank staff confronted Kelebeng regarding his loud speaking volume, to which he attributed to his South African heritage. Subsequently, Kelebeng asserted that staff members insulted him by stating that services were not available for black individuals.
Kelebeng then lodged a complaint with the branch’s security guard regarding the alleged racist behaviour, but purportedly no action was taken.
Testimony from three other employees, including a security guard, indicated that Kelebeng was uncooperative when informed that he couldn’t use a debit card with an existing savings account, and that he became confrontational with staff members.
Witnesses observed Kelebeng displaying rude behaviour towards both the security guard and staff members. Additionally, Kelebeng reportedly made disparaging remarks about the security staff’s age.
Given the lack of evidence pinpointing a motive for discrimination, it cannot be inferred that the bank violated the Equality Act.
Kelebeng was represented at the commission by Baybin Murphy BL of O’Hanahan Lally D’Alton Solicitors, while Barry Walsh of Fieldfisher LLP presented the bank’s defence.
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