Hostess sex bar claim

Press, 1 December 1987, Page 1

Hostess sex bar claim

PA Auckland The Equal Opportunities Tribunal yesterday supressed names of four Air New Zealand hostesses who claim their company denied them promotion because of their sex. The four are among 17 hostesses claiming realignment in terms of seniority, loss of wages and compensation for humiliation. Dr George Barton, appearing for the Human Rights Commissioner, told yesterday’s hearing in Auckland that some complainants had been subjected to harassment since proceedings were initiated. “Some complainants have felt a greater degree of personal concern and aggrievement than others,” Dr Barton told the tribunal. The suppression application was not opposed by counsel for Air New Zealand or counsel for the cabin crew union. The tribunal chairman, Ms Hannah Sargisson, granted interim suppression after a brief adjournment. On behalf of the women, the Human Rights Commission Is claiming the airline failed to afford them the , same promotion opportunities available to men. As well as compensation, it seeks promotion for the 15 women still employed by Air New Zealand. The case is expected to last three weeks.