A common occurrence is when employers approach an employee prior to a disciplinary hearing and offer to allow that employee to resign instead of “facing the music”. This in itself is not unfair and certainly does not constitute a constructive dismissal. The employee must prove in constructive dismissal circumstances that the situation had become absolutely intolerable.

In an interesting arbitration award Charles Matlala vs Debt Control Management, it was held that the resignation does not remotely constitute a constructive dismissal and that the expectation to reward the employee for having forced him to resign was unfounded and in fact, the employee had to pay the legal costs.

It is suggested that employers advise the employee, in front of witnesses, that if the employee chooses to resign he/she may do but it must be pointed out that there is no pressure being brought to bear upon the employee.

CONTACT CAPE LABOUR.

For more information on labour law advice or services. Please feel free to contact us at Cape Labour Consultants and we will gladly assist you. Cape Labour & Industrial Consultants is a Cape Town-based providing Labour Law (Industrial Relations) and advice to employers and employees across all market segments and industries since 1987.

For more information or to Contact Cape Labour. You can find all of our relevant details here.

W.Tel no.: 021-423-3959
Cell: 082-433-8714
Fax: 021-4232105
E-mail: bernard@capelabour.co.za
Website: www.capelabour.co.za