The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) has today (4 November 2004) issued legal proceedings under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance (Cap 480) and Family Status Discrimination Ordinance (Cap 527) in the District Court on behalf of a woman who was dismissed by her former employer upon her return to work following maternity leave.


The EOC has granted legal assistance in this case because it involves an important question of principle as to whether a woman who is dismissed upon return to work after maternity leave is protected against pregnancy discrimination. The dismissal may also amount to discrimination on the ground of her family status, namely her status of having responsibility to take care of her newborn baby.


Enquiry: Ms. Mariana LAW 21062226