SEXUAL HARASSMENT VICTIM AWARDED $4,000

The Saskatchewan Human Rights Tribunal ruled that Ray Edworthy and Shirwill Enterprises Ltd. were liable for sexual harassment of a female employee at the Buck or Two Store in Prince Albert.

The tribunal found that the storeowner had engaged in inappropriate behaviour and touching. The tribunal also heard evidence that a similar incident occurred in 1999 with another employee.

"The Human Rights Code prohibits any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature in the workplace. When a supervisor harasses an employee, it is an abuse of authority," Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission chief commissioner Donna Scott said. "Such unsolicited behavior attacks the dignity and self respect of the victim."

"The Commission is working with a number of Saskatchewan employers to develop and implement policies to prevent harassment and create safe work environments for all employees."

Edworthy of Regina operates seven stores throughout Saskatchewan: four in Regina, one in Saskatoon and two in Prince Albert.

The employee, who began her employment in November 1999, resigned shortly after the incident in September 2000. In the decision, the tribunal noted that at 22 she was highly vulnerable, both physically and economically. She was awarded $2,071 for lost wages and $2,000 in compensation for injury.

Gender-based complaints are the second highest number of complaints received by the Commission. Sexual harassment complaints increased by 36 percent last year.

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For More Information, Contact:

Yvonne Turgeon Human Rights Commission Saskatoon Phone: (306)933-5952