AIB manager claims he was suspended for bullying claim

A senior manager with Allied Irish Banks has claimed before the High Court he was suspended from his job “in retaliation” for bringing a bullying claim against his superior.

Seán McHugh (54), of Barna, Co Galway, who was employed at AIB’s business centre, Galway, has sued AIB arising from his allegedly wrongful suspension on full pay in September 2012.

AIB denies Mr McHugh was wrongfully suspended and contends he has
been the subject of an inquiry into allegations of misconduct.

Ercus Stewart SC, for Mr McHugh, said his suspension came about following allegations of a conflict of interest over the sanctioning of loans of €40,000 to individuals who were directors of Galway United Football club.

Mr McHugh denies any conflict of interest. He was the club’s licensing officer and claims he held that voluntary position with the full knowledge of AIB and had no day-to-day involvement with the club’s finan- cial management. The loans were made for valid reasons and had the approval of his superiors, he claims.

Mr Stewart said Mr McHugh had been with the bank since 1977, had an exemplary record and was promoted several times.

AIB pleads the decision to suspend Mr McHugh is lawful. The case continues before Mr Justice Paul Gilligan.