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Employee’s lawsuit against IBM over salary increase during sick leave dismissed

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In a recent court case that has been making massive airwaves, an employee on sick leave since 2008 (15 years ago) has sued his employer, IBM, for not increasing his salary during his extended absence.

Per our findings, Ian Clifford, an IT specialist with the American software company, claimed that his £54,000 ($67,500) yearly salary, along with other benefits, had been eroded by inflation during the 15 years he had not worked.

Clifford began his employment with Lotus Development, which was acquired by IBM in 2000. He went on sick leave in September 2008 and remained on it until 2013 when he raised concerns about his salary and holiday allowance during that period.

IBM, in a gesture of goodwill, enrolled Clifford in their disability plan, which entitled him to receive 75 percent of his agreed salary (£72,037) for the past 15 years, along with his 2013 holiday allowance (£8,685), until his retirement or death.

However, despite the considerable benefits he received, Clifford sought legal action against IBM, arguing that the disability plan did not adequately account for inflation and amounted to disability discrimination.

After hearing the details of the case, Judge Paul Housego dismissed the lawsuit, stating that IBM had acted generously toward Clifford and that the disability plan was designed to provide security for employees unable to work.

The judge emphasized that the plan was already a substantial benefit and not discriminatory.

This ruling has got many talking on the socials expressing agreement with Judge Housego’s decision.

 

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