PRESS RELEASE.PRESS RELEASE.PRESS RELEASE

Wednesday 17th February 2009

'Employment lawyer calls for zero tolerance on religious discrimination!'

Hafezis Solicitors are to call for zero tolerance of religious discrimination in the work place at their free seminar at Bolton Central Library, Le Mans crescent, Bolton on Thursday 19th February 2009 between 5.45-7pm.

Hamza Soren, Specialist Employment Solicitor who will be speaking at the event says 'It's important for all employers to take seriously their employees religious beliefs and practices and not lawfully discriminate against them, if for example, they request time off for religious pilgrimages, request a place to pray or even for the canteen to accommodate kosher, halal or vegetarian needs of its workers.

At the same time employees should be mindful of their employer's business needs when making such requests. One crucial part of getting the balance right between an employee's religious requirements in the work place and the commercial climate any business operates in, is for the business to employ an 'Equality Officer' who can help mediate potential disputes between the workforce and employer.

Preventing harassment and bullying based on an individual's religion is an important duty for any employer. Employers should have a ''zero tolerance'' attitude towards any staff abusing or insulting another colleague's religious belief and practices. It is vital for the workplace to respect differences and take account of an employees religious needs, to ensure the business has a highly motivated and profitable workforce.'

For more information and media enquiries and to arrange a press/TV or radio interview please contact either Nasir Hafezi or Hamza Soren at Bridgeman Buildings, Exchange Street, Bolton BL1 1RS. 01204 384 684