Sacked Stomach boss claims privacy breach

The sacked manager of The Stomach music venue in Palmerston North has filed a complaint against his former employer to the Privacy Commission.

Matt Davies had been employed at The Stomach for a year but was dismissed in July after an internal investigation.

He alleged the Creative Sounds Society Incorporated (CSSI) management committee, which administers The Stomach on a voluntary basis, had disregarded natural justice.

Davies said the situation was frustrating.

‘‘It has seemed to me that the management committee and their lawyer had a predetermined outcome and that involved dismissing me and that is very disappointing as I was head-hunted from Europe for this role.’’

In response to his claim, the CSSI management committee said they felt it was improper to comment on employment matters, ‘‘which should remain confidential’’.

Davies lodged the complaint with the Privacy Commission amid claims he was sent information that revealed a breach of his personal privacy.

‘‘I will have to take my case to the Human Rights Tribunal to deal with the privacy breaches and the workplace bullying I have experienced from the management committee.

‘‘This is in order for them to mediate and help resolve this employment dispute and to protect myself and any future managers of The Stomach.’’

In a written statement, the committee said: ‘‘The committee works carefully and tirelessly on behalf of our members and user community to deliver positive outcomes and service delivery, and we will maintain that focus.’’

The Stomach is a non-profit voluntary organisation dedicated to the encouragement of musical, artistic and performance activities.

Its main funding body is the Palmerston North City Council.