Probe launched into bullying claims at Dublin firm

Government officials are investigating allegations of bullying, harassment and intimidation of workers at an IT firm in Dublin, it emerged today.

Staff at the Global Mobilevision Company based in Clondalkin claimed wages were not being paid and employees were being put under duress while at work.

Finian McGrath, Independent TD, said there was a string of allegations of exploitation of the workforce.

“This is a story of bullying, non payment of wages, sexual harassment and intimidation,” he said.

Almost half of the 70 staff have contacted the TD with claims of abuse – 15 workers have levelled allegations of intimidation and five employees alleged sexual harassment. Several staff have resigned over conditions at the west Dublin site.

One employee, who did not want to be named, claimed he was held in an office against his will by two security men when he tried to leave work one afternoon.

It is understood labour inspectors from the Department of Enterprise have begun a probe into claims of inconsistent payment of wages and intimidation.

“There are a series of questions to be asked here about the company and the actions of management. There is also the whole question of fear – the workers were not even allowed to talk to each other during an eight hour shift,” Mr McGrath said.

“This is Ireland in 2005 not Ireland in 1913.”

One former employee, originally from India, revealed how the company refused to pay his wages leaving him with a mountain of debt.

He has since left the company and returned to his homeland unable to pay his bills.

GMV, who deny any wrongdoing, released the following statement: "GMV categorically rejects the allegations made against the company. The persons making the unfounded allegations are former employees most of whom were trainees with less than three months’ service. They were let go by GMV prior to completing their probationary period because they were not suitable for the opportunities available. In the case of one former employee who was still in training, the company had a concern for the security of its intellectual property."