The following is being distributed at the request of the Human Rights Commission:

The Human Rights Commission reports that a board of inquiry will commence on Tuesday, October 23, into a complaint filed with the commission against the Iron Ore Company of Canada and the United Steelworkers of America, Local 5795.

Jacqueline Mayo of Labrador City filed a complaint with the commission in May 2000, alleging discrimination in employment on the basis of age. In her complaint to the commission, Ms. Mayo stated that she had applied for a position with the Iron Ore Company of Canada under its summer employment program for students. She says she met the criteria for the position, passed the required medical and was told to report to work on May 3.

Based on the job offer, Ms. Mayo quit her job in St. John's and returned to Labrador City. Upon her return to Labrador City, Ms. Mayo was advised that her birthday had been overlooked and because of an agreement the company had with the union, she was considered too old for employment under the Student Employment Program. 

This complaint was not resolved during the investigation and on December 19, 2000, the commission ordered the appointment of a board of inquiry.

The hearing into this complaint, which is open to the public, is scheduled to commence at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 23, at the Carol Inn in Labrador City. Glen Picco, adjudicator, will hear the complaint. Barry Fleming will present the complaint on behalf of the commission.

For further information 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

2001 10 22                            11:10 a.m.