In a landmark decision, Shona Boyle from Belfast, an employee of Caterpillar NI, has been awarded over £305,000 in compensation in what is believed to be the highest individual equal pay claim in Northern Ireland’s history.
The significant ruling underlines the importance of gender pay equality and sets a precedent for future claims.
Shona Boyle initiated her claim in July 2018, after discovering significant pay discrepancies between herself and three male colleagues who were performing the same job. Despite raising the issue directly with her employer, Caterpillar NI, and receiving unsatisfactory justifications for the pay difference, Shona firmly believed that her lower pay was due to gender discrimination.
In seeking justice, Shona approached McCartan Turkington Breen for legal assistance. The firm meticulously prepared her claim for a hearing which took place over several days between November 2022 and March 2023, following delays due to COVID-19. The case included compelling witness evidence and a detailed forensic financial loss report prepared by Sumer Accountants NI Ltd.
Represented by Ms Rachel Best KC (Ms Rachel Best KC), Shona’s case was presented with strong written and oral arguments. The Employment Tribunal overwhelmingly determined that Shona was indeed performing the same job as her male colleagues who were paid more and that the pay disparity was due to her being a woman. Consequently, Shona was awarded back pay for the period she was underpaid and ensured equal pay and benefits moving forward.
John McShane, Solicitor with Macartan Turkington Breen said: “We are immensely proud of Shona for standing up for what is right and for having the courage to pursue this claim. This ruling not only vindicates her position but also sends a powerful message that gender pay discrimination will not be tolerated. We hope this case inspires others to come forward and seek the equality they deserve.”
