Carlisle Patriot February 6, 1880 Master and Servant Case

Master and Servant Case

Messrs J. H. GARTSIDE & Co., Shaddongate Beetling Works were summoned by Patrick MURRAY, beetler, to recover 2l damage for unlawful dismissal.   Mr. WANNOP was for the prosecution, and Mr. BROWN represented for the defendants.   MURRAY was employed by the company at 1l per week. During the winter there had not been sufficient work to keep the hands going full time, and the plaintiff and others were idle for weeks at a time. When he went to begin work, he was asked by the foreman “if he had heard of the payoff?” He replied “no.” The foreman said several hands had been paid-off, and he (MURRAY) was one. He claimed a fortnight’s notice, and stated that bills were posted in the works to the effect that no one could leave without giving notice.   For the defence, Mr. BROWN contended that the notices were pulled down, and never were in force. The men came and went as they liked. No arrangement was made with MURRAY as to notice.   The Chairman said the defendants could not repudiate their own act in putting up the notices. The Bench were of the opinion the man was entitled to a fortnight’s notice, or his wages in lieu thereof, (Applause.)

 

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