The applicant, a Chinese-Canadian Helpdesk Support Analyst, alleged that his employer discriminated against him based on race, colour, place of origin, and ethnic origin.
He claimed he was bullied by his supervisor and terminated because of his Chinese accent.
The Tribunal dismissed the harassment allegations, finding no nexus to Code grounds.
However, the Tribunal found that the applicant's perceived verbal communication difficulties in English, which were linked to his place of origin, were a factor in the respondent's decision to eliminate his position and terminate his employment.
The respondent failed to establish that a specific level of English proficiency was a bona fide occupational requirement.
The Tribunal awarded the applicant $15,000 for injury to dignity, feelings, and self-respect, along with lost wages.