The father of a dismissed Co Kildare teacher described to an Employment Appeals Tribunal hearing yesterday the "torturous" effect the sacking has had on the family.
Mr Timothy Moore, representing his son, Gerard, who was dismissed from Holy Child National School, Naas, in August 1999, wept as he spoke of what had happened to his son. Mr Gerard Moore is claiming unfair dismissal and dismissal without due notice against the school's board of management, which sacked him for "conduct and attitude".
Mr Gerard Moore, of Lakeside Park, Naas, told the tribunal he did not want to be left on the "scrap heap" by being compelled to leave teaching at the age of 44. A package had previously been offered to Mr Moore by the school's board of management and a delegation representing the Bishop of Kildare, Dr Laurence Ryan, the school's patron. The board sought the sanction of the bishop to dismiss Mr Moore, the tribunal was told.
The package included options of sick leave and early retirement, possibly through disability.
Mr Moore has asked the tribunal to reinstate him in the school if his claim is successful. Ms Marguerite Bolger, representing the school board and Dr Ryan, said the board had "legitimate concerns" and "difficulties" dealing with Mr Moore.
She said he ignored letters sent to him from the board, which Ms Bolger said was unacceptable, as was his turning up for work the day after he was suspended. Another problem was his refusal to recognise his culpability.
Ms Bolger also said he made no effort to overcome the "impasse" between himself and the school's principal, Ms Patricia Kennelly.
The hearing concluded yesterday and the tribunal said it would deliver its decision as soon as possible.