Written question asked by Iris Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 12 November 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 19 November 2003. It was answered by Jane Kennedy (Labour) on Wednesday, 19 November 2003 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how much has been awarded since 1st November 2002 in Northern Ireland in costs as the result of employment tribunals; and what the average sum awarded was.

Answer: Mrs. Iris Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much has been awarded since 1 November 2002 in Northern Ireland in costs as the result of employment tribunals; and what the average sum awarded was. [138982] Jane Kennedy: The equivalents of Employment Tribunals in Northern Ireland are the Industrial Tribunals and the Fair Employment Tribunal. Costs may be awarded against any party if a tribunal decides that the party has acted scandalously, frivolously, vexatiously, abusively, disruptively or otherwise unreasonably. The information requested is not readily available and could be compiled only at disproportionate cost. Costs are awarded infrequently by the tribunals and they have normally been in the range £50 to £500.

Secondary information