The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) has today (19 January 2012) issued legal proceedings under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance, Cap. 480 in the District Court, on behalf of a female merchandiser who was dismissed by her employer immediately after her maternity leave. The Plaintiff alleged that her former employer treated her unreasonably and rudely after she had submitted her pregnancy notice, and was subsequently dismissed on the day when she resumed work from maternity leave.

Pregnancy discrimination in employment is unlawful. However, the EOC finds that dismissal of pregnant employees is still prevalent. By taking this case to court, the EOC hopes to maintain public awareness to this unfair practice and to remind employers regarding protection against pregnancy discrimination under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance.

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For media enquiries, please contact Ms. Mariana LAW at 2106-2226

Equal Opportunities Commission
19 January 2012