Falkirk MSP backs call to halt golf club land sale over sacking of greenkeeper

Falkirk MSP supports halt on golf club land sale after greenkeeper dismissal

Falkirk Council is facing calls to pause a land sale to Braes Golf Centre following the dismissal of a long-serving greenkeeper without compensation. John Easton, who worked at the Falkirk-based golf club for 19 years, was unfairly dismissed by the club’s owner, Steven Matthews, and is owed £22,000 in compensation. Despite a tribunal ruling in Easton’s favour, the golf club has refused to pay up and is looking to purchase land from the council to expand its carpark with the same amount owed to Easton.

GMB Scotland, the union representing Easton, has urged Falkirk Council to intervene and stop the land sale. Falkirk East MSP Michelle Thomson has thrown her support behind the union’s demand, highlighting the importance of upholding fair treatment of employees. The union has also mentioned potential legal action to wind up the golf club if the compensation remains unpaid.

Easton’s dismissal came abruptly after he returned to work following a furlough period during the pandemic. An employment tribunal found his sacking to be unjust and awarded him compensation, criticising the golf club owner for his failure to follow proper employment procedures. Despite this ruling, the golf club has shown reluctance to comply with the legal process, prompting calls for Falkirk Council to take a stand against such unfair practices.

In response, a spokesperson for Falkirk Council stated that the land sale agreement has been finalised independently of the employment dispute involving the golf club. Despite acknowledging the significance of enforcing tribunal orders, the council’s legal advisors maintain that halting the sale on the grounds of the ongoing disagreement would be inappropriate.

The situation underscores the broader issue of ethical business practices and the responsibility of public bodies to uphold fair employment standards. As the dispute continues, it remains to be seen how Falkirk Council will navigate the delicate balance between economic interests and social justice in this case.

**Insights and Summary:**

The case of John Easton and Braes Golf Centre highlights the complexities surrounding employee rights and business ethics. It sheds light on the challenges faced by workers in seeking recourse for unfair dismissals and the importance of holding employers accountable for their actions. Falkirk MSP Michelle Thomson’s support for halting the land sale underscores the need for companies to act responsibly towards their employees, contributing to a fairer working environment for all. As the situation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle for worker rights and the role of regulatory bodies in upholding justice in the workplace.