Councillor wins €22,000 damages for sacking by Galway FA

A former administrator at Galway Football Association who heard he was sacked from his job after checking voicemail left on his mobile phone, was awarded almost €22,000 in damages plus costs, at Galway Circuit Civil Court this week.

City councillor, Michael Crowe, Coolough, Briarhill, Galway, sued Galway FA, which has registered offices at Eamonn Deacy Park, Dyke Road, for damages arising out of breach of contract, misrepresentation and negligent misstatement.

In his statement of civil claim to the court, Mr Crowe stated he was employed by the Galway FA as an administrator on a one-year, fixed term contract which commenced in or around January 21, 2013.

He said he was given assurances at that time and it was thus an express/implied term of the contract that the position had good, long-term prospects.

Mr Crowe stated he attended for interview and was found suitable for the position.

Acting on faith of the representations made to him, Mr Crowe stated he accepted the offer and resigned from his previous employment.

He said he commenced employment on January 21, 2013.

His claim stated that in or around April 29, 2013, the Association “unilaterally” terminated the contract of employment and wrongfully dismissed him.

He started in his claim that he was informed of this decision by voicemail.

“The contract of employment was summarily terminated without any due regard for natural justice and/or fair procedures.

“The plaintiff was informed of this decision by voicemail.

“By reason of the breach of contract the plaintiff has suffered loss, damage and expense,” the civil claim concluded.

The matter was fully fought with Mr Crowe, his friend, and four witnesses from the Club giving evidence.

Judge Rory McCabe found in favour of Mr Crowe and awarded him €21,875 plus costs and any reserved costs. The judge refused to put a stay on his order.