February 28, 2000
(Justice)

The Human Rights Commission releases the decision of chief adjudicator, Mary O�Brien, in which she ruled that Lori Allen was sexually harassed and sexually solicited by David Warren, the owner/operator of Klines Hair Care Centre. Ms. O�Brien further ruled that Ms. Allen�s termination of employment with Klines Hair Care Centre was the result of that solicitation and harassment.

On April 7, 1997 Ms. Allen obtained the position of technician/receptionist at Klines Hair Care Centre. Ms. O�Brien found that Ms. Allen was invited to accompany Mr. Warren on a business trip to Corner Brook in May 1997. When she arrived in Corner Brook she learned that he had reserved only one hotel room as accommodation. Ms. Allen was subjected to a number of sexual advances and unwelcome comments while travelling to and staying in Corner Brook. Ms. O�Brien concluded that Ms. Allen�s refusal to accept the sexual advances, and the sexual harassment which she endured, precipitated the termination of her employment.

Ms. O�Brien ordered that David Warren and Klines Hair Care Centre pay to Ms. Allen $4,000 for general damages for hurt feelings and the loss of her dignity. She also awarded Ms. Allen lost wages for the four weeks after her termination during which she was looking for work. Gerlinde van Driel represented the Human Rights Commission at the Board of Inquiry.

Contact:
Gladys Vivian,
Executive Director
Human Rights Commission
P.O.Box 8700
St. John�s, Newfoundland
A1B 4J6
Phone: (709) 729-2709
Toll Free: 1-800-563-5808

2000 02 28                                                 12:05 p.m.