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\f36\fs24\lang1033\langfe5129\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp5129 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par CIVIL JURISDICTION
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par CIVIL ACTION NO. 99 OF 1992
\par 
\par Between:
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 PREM NARAYAN}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067\charrsid8136067 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 s/o Ragnundan
\par Plaintiff
\par 
\par - and -
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 DINERS CLUB (NZ) LTD
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Defendant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par Mr. S.P. Sharma for the Plaintiff
\par Mr. B. Sweetman for the Defendant
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4252\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 JUDGMENT}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par By writ of Summons dated 24 March 1992 the Plaintiff (P) brings this action against the defendant (D) to recover damages for alleged wrongful dismissal.
\par 
\par I need not recount all the details of the case; it will be sufficient if I gave a general outline of the facts.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067\charrsid8136067 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The Plaintiff was employed by D (a company) under an agreement in writing dated 30 July 1990 although not signed by P as its }{
\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "Manager, Fiji Diners Club (NZ) Limited"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
 on a salary of F$28,000 and F$0.50 per Km vehicle allowance together with medical and a free Diners Club personal card to the limit of $84.
\par 
\par The Plaintiff alleges that in breach of the said agreement, D terminated P's employment by effectively dismissing him by giving written notice to him dated 24 October 1991.
\par 
\par The Plaintiff alleges that the termination was wrongful and the reasons given for it are }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 'false'}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 .}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
By reason whereof he says he has been deprived of the salary he would otherwise have earned during the continuance of the said agreement and he has thereby suffered loss and damage.
\par 
\par The Plaintiff claims: (1) damages for wrongful dismissal, (2) an order for payment by D to P of the amount found to be due to him on the taking of any account in respect of remuneration other than salary or alternatively, damages in lieu of such terminati
on, (3) costs and (4) such further or other relief as this Court may seem just.
\par 
\par By its Defence, whilst admitting paragraphs 1, 2 & 3 (partly) of the Plaintiff's Statement of Claim D admitted the termination of employment by written notice dated 24 October 1991, it denies the other allegations in paragraphs 4, 5 and 6.
\par 
\par There were only two witnesses in this case, namely the Plaintiff himself and Miss Judith Kavanagh (JK) for the Defendant.
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par The Issues}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par The issues for the Court's determination are:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 (a)\tab Whether D's termination of P's appointment with D on 24 October 1991 was wrongful; and

\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 (b)\tab 
If so, whether P is entitled to any damages for wrongful dismissal and if so the amount of such damages.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The Plaintiff's evidence}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par The Plaintiff applied for a position advertised by D in the Fiji Times newspaper through the international recruitment consultants, Rishworth & Co., (RC) (exhibit I),}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 by letter (exhibit 2) which was addressed to Miss Charmayne Goldfinch (Miss CG).
\par 
\par The Plaintiff who was a lending Manager with Westpac for about 25 years outlined to Court the circumstances which led to his resignation from the bank on 17 April 1990.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 He instituted an action against the Bank for wrongful dismissal and while this action was pending he applied to RC for the advertised post. 
\par 
\par He tendered to Court copy of his Curriculum Vitae (CV) (Exhibit 2) which he says he sent to Miss CG with his application.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
Miss CG required further information which P supplied as per Exhibit 3 dated 7.6.90.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 On 14 July 1990 he was interviewed by 
Ms Judith Kavanagh (JK) at Sheraton Hotel, Nadi.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 At the time of interview she had the C.V. (which he sent to Miss CG) in front of her.

\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par Plaintiff's Submissions}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The learned counsel for the Plaintiff submits that }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "the issue for this Court is whether P faile
d to disclose to his prospective employer the fact that he had been dishonest in failing to disclose his termination from Westpac"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 .
\par 
\par He said that no one from RC was called }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "to explain the difference in the curriculum vitae submitted to Miss J. Kavanagh and which she allegedly used and that submitted by the Plaintiff"
}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 .}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 He says that the curriculum vitae sent to RC were }{
\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "as submitted in evidence and they are exhibits"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  but it is argued by D that they were }{
\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "not known in the form so submitted because they had never seen them"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 .}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
Mr. Sharma submits that RC obtained all necessary details and his application for employment from P and he was thereafter interviewed by JK.
\par 
\par He says that no evidence was adduced by calling someone from RC to prove that P never sent the curriculum vitae in the form of Exhibits 2 and 3.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The Plaintiff submits that he sent the said exhibits and }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "they made the appropriate disclosure"}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 .
\par 
\par On the question of P not signing the letter of appointment, counsel states that he has explained his reasons for not doing so.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
In this regard, he says, P's evidence is to b}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067 e preferred to that of Miss JK.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The Defendant's Defence and Submission}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 It agrees that the issues before the Court involve (a) determination on whether there was a disclosure to J.K. that he was 
no longer employed by Westpac Banking Corporation and the circumstances surrounding his resignation and/or termination by Westpac; and (b) the events of 24 October 1991 immediately leading up to the P's dismissal and in particular the matters discussed be
tween the Plaintiff and JK on that date.
\par 
\par The D's submission states that it is }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "inconceivable}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  }{
\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 that Rishworth prepared a curriculum vitae other than from material supplied by the Plaintiff himself and accordingly in view of the difference between the Curricu
lum Vitae presented by the Plaintiff in evidence (exhibits 1 and 2) and the Curriculum Vitae presented by Rishworth to Miss Kavanagh (exhibit 8), the question arises of whether the Exhibits 2 and 3 Curriculum Vitae are copies of the documents which the Pl
aintiff sent to Rishworth."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par The D argues that the document prepared by Rishworths for the Defendant is that the Plaintiff's Curriculum Vitae did not disclose the fact that he was no longer employed by Westpac.
\par 
\par The D further submits that by his conduct the Plaintiff clearly accepted the appointment as set out in the Letter of Appointment.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
There were no variation of any of its terms.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
It says that it is true that the Defendant raised no objection to the fact that the Plaintiff had not signed his letter of App
ointment which may be considered an oversight, but this does not in any way detract from the binding nature of the terms and conditions set out in his Letter of Appointment.
\par }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The Defendant further submits that the dilemma facing the plaintiff is that if he
 is going to contend that he was not employed on the conditions set out in this letter of appointment then he has no other conditions of employment which he can rely upon.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The Plaintiff it says, accepted the post and all the terms of employment set out in 
the letter of 30th July and the mere fact that he did not sign the letter agreeing that he understood and accepted the terms and conditions does not in any way prevent the contract of employment coming into force as a result of his conduct in taking up th
e offer.
\par 
\par The Defendant says that the contract of employment was in these circumstances terminable by one calendar month's notice or the payment of equivalent salary.
\par 
\par The Defendant maintains that JK had no reason to believe at any time after the interview until October 1991 that the Plaintiff was effectively dismissed by Westpac.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 She upon receipt of information flew to Suva on 23 October 1991 and confronted the Plaintiff with the proposition that he had not been honest with her concerning his employment wit
h Westpac and that accordingly the }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "trust relationship"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  had broken down.
\par 
\par The Defendant's case is that there was no disclosure by the Plaintiff to the Defendant at the interview or at any subsequent time prior to date of his dismissal that he had effectively been dismissed by Westpac.
\par 
\par It is submitted by the Defendant that there was good cause to dismiss the Plaintiff for being dishonest.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
He was paid one month's salary in lieu of notice in terms of his contract of employment and is not entitled to any more.}{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par Determination of the Issues}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par In the circumstances outlined above the Plaintiff says that he was wrongfully dismissed.
\par 
\par I have carefully analysed all the evidence adduced before me.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Having seen and heard the two witnesses (one}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 from each side) I am convinc
ed that the Plaintiff has been truthful in regard to essential matters which have a bearing on the issues before me for my determination.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 On a balance of probabilities I prefer to accept the evidence of the Plaintiff to that of JK on the issue of alleged non-disclosure.
\par 
\par The Plaintiff was, after he had applied for the post,}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
interviewed at length and minutely by JK at Sheraton Hotel when she had in her possession the Plaintiff's CV.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
I am satisfied and I find as fact that it was the C.V. prepared by RC from exhibits 2 and 3 which P sent to RC which was before her and that was all that was required to be disclosed as far as his employment with Westpac was concerned.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 If there was any difference between the CV submitted to JK and that submitted by P, it was for RC to clarify the situation.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 This was not done by adducing cogent evidence in that regard.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 I accept and find as fact that the CV sent to RC were as submitted in evidence and exhibited.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 This answers the query regarding the "non-disclosure" aspect of the matter.
\par 
\par I find as fact that after interview the Plaintiff was properly appointed to the post.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Although he had not signed the }{
\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 'appointment letter'}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  the Plaintiff was interviewed and employed by D and was paid the salary.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 He has given reasons for not signing and
 he continued in employment without being required to sign the letter nor could JK explain why P's signature was not obtained.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
However, the fact remains and I so find as fact subject to what I say on the aspect of notice of termination hereafter that the Plaintiff was employed by the Defendant on the terms and conditions as set out in the said Letter of Appointment.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par The Plaintiff was dismissed from employment under the }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "Termination"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  clause in exhibit 15 which reads:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "}{\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Termination:}{
\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Should you decide to res
ign from your position you will do so in writing to the *Manager-Service Establishments Division giving one calendar month notice.}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
Should the company wish to terminate your employment at any stage, likewise one calendar month or the equivalent salary will be paid.}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Diners Club does however, reserve the right to amend these conditions should such a change be warranted by them"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par The reasons given in the said termination letter of 24 October 1991 are as follows:-
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 When Diners Club interviewed you for the positi
on of Manager-Fiji office you verbally stated that the reason you were leaving Westpac was that you were keen to have a sole management position.}{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 In no way did you indicate that you were asked to leave.
\par }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067 
\par }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Prem, there has also been instances of documentation for cash advances to Diners Club members being altered in the Suva Office.
\par 
\par The above and other relevant factors lead us to believe that the trust relationship between Diners Club New Zealand Ltd and yourself has completely broken down and nothing in the 
meeting held between you and myself this morning has reinstated that trust relationship.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par Upon a careful consideration of all the evidence and the exhibits tendered in this case, I find without going into details that there was no justification for the Pla
intiff's dismissal in all the circumstances of this case for the two reasons given by the Defendant and the manner in which he was dismissed.
\par 
\par Subject to what I say hereafter I agree with Mr. Sweetman that any contract of employment is terminable on reasonable notice if the contract does not specify a period of notice for as stated in }{
\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 AFRICAN ASSOCIATION LIMITED AND ALLEN}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  (1910 1 K.B}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7618838 .}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  396) at 399 where }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 LORD ALVERSTONE CJ}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  said that:

\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "the general principle applicable to contracts of service is that, in the a
bsence of misconduct or of grounds specified in the contract, the engagement can only be terminated after reasonable notice."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par In the case before me the Plaintiff was summarily dismissed.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 In }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
ALLEN}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  (supra) there was a similar clause to the termination clause here to the effect that the clause conferred upon the employers the right to dismiss their servant summarily.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 But commenting on this }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 LORD ALVERSTONE CJ}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  (supra at 399-400) said that under that clause.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "The employers may in their discretion terminate the 
engagement at any time, but in my opinion the proper construction to place upon the language of clause 2, particularly when one bears in mind that the agreement relates to service abroad, is that it means that the discretionary power to terminate the enga
gement at any time can only be exercised }{\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 after reasonable notice of their intention}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
 has been given by the employers."
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 (underlining mine for emphasis).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par For the purposes of the case before me I agree and adopt the abovequoted passage.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Similarly the following
 passages from the judgment of }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 BRAY J}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
 in ALLEN (supra) at page 400 is also apt and this I also accept on the question of the interpretation of the termination clause on the agreement of service:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "It must, I think, be taken to be the law that an agreement 
of employment of this nature confers no right on the employer, in the absence of misconduct, to terminate the engagement without reasonable notice, unless the agreement contains clear words indicating a contrary intention.}{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 This contract provides for an eng
agement for two years; but the employers desired to have an opportunity of terminating it earlier if they so wished, and, therefore, clause 2 provides that "the employers may at any time hereafter, at their absolute discretion, terminate this engagement a
t any earlier date than that specified."}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 That seems to me to give an option in favour of the employers, }{
\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 which option can}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 , however, }{\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
only be exercised by them on the usual and implied term of giving reasonable notice}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  of their intention to exercise it.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 But the matter does not rest there.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
The termination of an engagement without notice is practically the same thing as a summary dismissal, and we find in clause 8 of the agreement a power to summarily dismiss the servant for certain specified reasons.}{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The inferenc
e which I draw from that is that the determination of the engagement at any time under clause 2 is not the same thing as the summary dismissal under clause 8.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 I therefore come to the conclusion that in the circumstances of this case reasonable notice was required."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  
\par (underlining mine for emphasis)
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par Of the two reasons given for dismissal, the first one was that when interviewed the Plaintiff did not disclose that he }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "was asked to leave"}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  Westpac.
\par 
\par When viewed in the light of all the circumstances surrounding 
this case particularly bearing in mind the fact that there was a proper application with C.V., followed by a thorough interview by a senior officer of the D company and the fact that he was employed and paid salary and there being no adverse comment on th
e performance of his duties, then this is far from being a case where the alleged non-disclosure, but I have held otherwise, is of little moment to justify the drastic action of summary dismissal.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 In }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 GILL v COLONIAL MUTUAL LIFE ASSURANCE SOCIETY LIMITED}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  (1912 V.L.R. p. 146) which was a case of claim for damages for wrongful dismissal, on the ground, inter alia, of making false statements it was held (headnote):
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "A master is not, in the absence of express provision in the contract of employment justified in 
summarily discharging a servant on the ground that he has been }{\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 guilty of dishonesty}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 , }{
\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 before}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  entering the master's employment."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 

\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7618838 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 (underlining mine for emphasis)
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par In the case before me it is alleged that the Plaintiff has been dishonest in not disclosing correctly his status regarding his employment with Westpac Bank.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 In }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 GILL}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
 (supra) and so in this case the short point for decision is whether the Bank was justified in dismissing summarily the Plaintiff who has been guilty of }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "dishonesty"}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 before}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  entering on his
 employment but I have found as fact that he was not }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "dishonest"}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  in this regard.
\par 
\par In }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 GILL}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  (supra) p. 147-148 }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 HOOD J}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  said, and I agree with him that: 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "... I think the proper conclusion (to the above question) is arrived at by considering the contract betw
een the parties, including any terms that the law implies therein. ... there is an implication that the servant will render faithful service subject to dismissal on failure: BOSTON Deep Sea, etc & Co v. Ansell (e); and also that he will not be guilty of a
ny conduct during his service incompatible with the proper discharge of his duty: Pearce v. Foster (f).}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 But there is }{
\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 neither reason nor authority for the proposition}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  }{
\b\i\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 that the servant impliedly undertakes that his past life has been beyond reproach, nor is t
here any obligation on him to disclose, unasked, his previous history: See Fletcher v. Krell (g)}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 .}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 In my opinion, therefore, the defendant's contention cannot be supported.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 What authority there is tells in the plaintiff's favour."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
(underlining mine for emphasis).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par In the case before me, although I have found there was proper disclosure, in the light of the above-quoted passage with which I agree the Plaintiff was not obliged to tell the Defendant any more than what he had divulged to them.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 If anything, it was on JK to satisfy herself on relevant matters during the interview and before appointment.
\par 
\par In }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 GILL}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  (supra at p.148) }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 HOOD J}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  in his judgment goes on to make the following further statements in favour of the Plaintiff which is very much applicable to the case before me:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
"It seems harsh to say that an employer cannot, without due notice, get rid of a servant whose previous conduct renders him undesirable; but it is equally harsh to say that a capable and willing servant may be immediately dismissed on the di
scovery of some ancient offence - so that no assistance is derived from this consideration. And if such an implication as to previous conduct is to be made against the employed, would it not be just to make a similar one against the employer?}{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Could a serva
nt justify his instant departure from his employment because the master had some years before been insolvent though now solvent, or because the master had been guilty of some moral delinquency?}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The one implication seems to me as impossible as the other." }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par I endorse the above views of }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 HOOD J}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  in determining the issue before me.
\par 
\par Further to what I have stated above on the giving of notice under the said termination clause of the letter of appointment, it is my view that because it was a wrongful dismissal for
 the reasons given the provision in the contract of employment as to giving of one month's notice will not apply in this case.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
There was therefore the need to give a reasonable notice and that is a question and will depend on the true construction of the contract of service, the nature of the position held by the Plaintiff and the circumstances of the case.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 After an interview the Plaintiff was given what appeared from the letter of appointment to be a permanent employment.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par In view of what I have stated above, it follows that the Plaintiff's claim for unlawful dismissal must succeed.
\par 
\par That leaves me to consider what damages the Plaintiff is entitled to and in considering this I propose to assess damages worked out on the basis of reasonable notice.
\par 
\par In }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 ADDIS v GRAMAPHONE COMPANY, LIMITED}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  1909 A}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7618838 .}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 C.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7618838  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 483 it was held that:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
"Where a servant is wrongfully dismissed from his employment the damages for the dismissal cannot include compensation for the manner of the dismissal, for his injured feelings, or for the lo
ss he may sustain from the fact that the dismissal of itself makes it more difficult for him to obtain fresh employment."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par Recently it was stated in }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 MALIK and ANOTHER v BANK OF CREDIT AND COMMERCE INTERNATIONAL S A}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
 (in compulsory liquidation) (The Times, Court of Appeal 12.4.95) that:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
"Damages for injury to his reputation were not recoverable by an employee alleging breach of an implied term of his contract of employment that the employer would not, without reasonable and proper cause, conduct itself in a 
manner calculated or likely to destroy or seriously damage the relationship of confidence and trust between employer and employee."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par On the question of what is reasonable notice }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 BREARLEY & BLOCK}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  the authors of }{
\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 EMPLOYMENT COVENANTS & CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  (1993) state:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
"However, factors considered relevant by the courts have included the employee's seniority and level of responsibility; the level of salary and frequency of pay days; the employee's length of service; the importance of the employee in the 
organisation; the difficulty the employer will face in replacing him; and local, trade or professional customs.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
See Hill v CA Parsons & Co Ltd [1927] 3 All ER 1345 (CA) for an example of how reasonable notice has been determined relatively recently.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Whilst reasonable notice will never be less than the statutory minimum, in the case of senior employees it will frequently be considerably more."}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par The Letter of Appointment (exhibit 5) did not fix the duration of employment.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 The Plaintiff was employed until the trouble arose.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 In }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 JAMES v THOMAS H. KENT & CO LTD}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  (1950 1 KB p.551 at 555 }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 SOMMERVILL L.J.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
 said in a situation such as this }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "the law requires a reasonable period of notice."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par 
\par The Defendant in this case terminated the Plaintiff's employment by giving one month's notice.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 In }{
\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 HILL v C.A. PARSONS & CO LTD 1971 3 AER 1345 CA}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
, which was a case of a dismissal of a professional man when sued for wrongful dismissal it was held that the giving of }{\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
"one month's notice to terminate his contract of service was far too short; accordingly the defendant's purported notice to terminate the plaintiff's employment amounted to a wrongful repudiation of his contract of service."}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 There }{\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 LORD DENNING M.R.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067  said at p.1349 that:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 "In order to terminate his employment, they would have to give reasonable notice.}{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
I should have thought that, for a professional man of his standing and I may add, his length of service, reasonable notice would be at least six months, and may be 12 months.}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{
\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 At any rate, one month is far too short."}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par In my judgment, in all the circumstances of this case 9 months' notice of termination would have been reasonable.
\par 
\par In the outcome, for the above reasons, I find that the Plaintiff has been wrongfully dismissed.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
He is therefore entitled to recover damages in the sum of $22275.61 from the Defendant which is calculated as follows:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Nine m}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067 onths' salary i.e. $2334.00\tab $}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par per month (based on salary of
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 $28000 per year)\tab \tab \tab 21006.00
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067 Add 2% Staff annual increase
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 backdated
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 (as per exhibit 15 - termination letter)}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067     }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 152.46
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Add 18 days holiday pay (as per 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 exhibit 15)\tab \tab \tab \tab 1117.15
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li4320\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin4320\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 $22275.61
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par There will therefore be judgment for the said sum of $22275.61 for the Plaintiff against the Defendant.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
If the sum of $4403.90 (referred to in exhibit 15) has been received by the Plaintiff from the Defendant then the said sum will have to be deducted from $22275.61 which will leave the balance sum of $17871.71 made payable to the Plaintiff.
\par 
\par I also award costs against the Defendant which is to be taxed if not agreed.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 D. Pathik
\par }{\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 Judge}{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 At Suva
\par 22 November{\*\bkmkstart QuickMark}{\*\bkmkend QuickMark} 1995
\par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8136067 {\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8136067 HBC0099J.92S}{\f0\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9595447\charrsid8136067 
\par }}