The plaintiff, Steve Scarrow, sued the defendants for wrongful dismissal, seeking damages for constructive dismissal, a retirement allowance, unpaid wages, aggravated damages, and punitive damages.
The defendants, including John Robert Walkey and three related corporations, were noted in default and did not file a defence, leading to an undefended trial.
The court found that Mr. Scarrow was constructively dismissed and was entitled to 24 months' salary in lieu of notice, a promised retirement allowance, and unpaid wages.
The court also awarded aggravated and punitive damages due to the defendants' bad faith conduct and the devastating impact on the plaintiff.
The claim for unjust enrichment was dismissed as the other awards provided adequate compensation.
All defendants were found jointly and severally liable under the common employer doctrine.