In late May I was let go from my job for “financial reasons”. Essentially, it was explained to me that my position was being terminated due to budgetary constraints and the fact that the duties were not of sufficient value to the organization.
I recently discovered that the organization re-hired for my position in mid-August under a different title (same duties/responsibilities). The person they hired was a personal friend of the General Manager (my boss), and a person that originally gave the GM their job in 2013.
For additional context, my termination was handled incredibly poorly (the details are far more dramatic than is necessary to post). However, in knowing what they did and how they handled it I almost feel a responsibility to do something about it so that this situation never happens again. Problem is, I’m not sure precisely what steps to take. I don’t necessarily want (or can even get) compensation, and I certainly do not want that job back, but I do want them to be held accountable in some fashion.
Useful information to know:
- I was employed for 2 years, given the minimum but acceptable severance according to employment standards, and I signed a release.
- The organization is a union, but it was a non-unionized job.
- The industry is mandated (but not really regulated) by provincial legislation.
- My termination and the re-hire were within the same fiscal year.
- This action violates internal nepotism policies.
My questions are:
- Do I have any legal recourse for complaint?
- Are there other avenues that I can explore to file a complaint or instigate an investigation?
- What might be the best way to address my termination with potential employers? Financial reasons were given, but clearly false. I do not wish to lie to potential employers, especially since a quick search will determine I was replaced. I also do not trust the General Manager to give me a proper endorsement through reference.
If anyone needs additional information in order to properly advise I would be happy to provide it in PM. Just do not wish to make all the details public. Any advice or opinions before I contact legal counsel would be appreciated!