ONE of Bathurst’s largest employers is caught in the centre of an investigation into workplace bullying after the suicide death of a former apprentice.
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Alec Meikle, 16, who committed suicide in New Zealand on October 13 last year, was an apprentice with the State Government rail contractor.
A NSW Inquiry into bullying of children and young people was told this week that Alec was set alight by work colleagues who also threatened to rape him.
Local driving instructor Warren Aubin was teaching him to drive at the time the bullying was happening.
While Mr Aubin refused to comment to the Western Advocate yesterday, he was quoted in the Daily Telegraph talking about Alec’s treatment while at work.
“It was horrible ... he had stuff sprayed on him, he was set on fire a couple of times. They poured liquid on him and lit it up and would stand back and watch him put it out.
“He had glue poured on him. He told me he was on compo.”
The incident where Alec was set alight occurred on May 26 last year, and was reported to his employers that afternoon. WorkCover was also contacted.
After seeing his doctor on May 27, Alec was placed on stress leave. He never returned to work.
In August he attempted to take his own life, at which time his family moved him home to his native new Zealand, but just weeks later, on October 13, he committed suicide.
A statement released by Downer EDI Rail yesterday told how the company undertook a “full investigation into the workplace incident” and “appropriate action was taken at that time”.
A three-sentence media release said:
“In addition, the company fully co-operated with independent investigations undertaken by the relevant authorities.
“The details of the investigation are confidential and it is inappropriate to comment further on the matter or the individuals involved.
“The company has in place education and training programs to prevent harassment and bullying and ensure appropriate behaviour in the work place.”
A spokesperson for Downer EDI’s Corporate Affairs Department said the perpetrators were disciplined, although they were unable to give specific information on procedure due to privacy laws.
The spokesperson also confirmed at the time of the incident Downer EDI had a Code of Conduct and Anti-Harassment policy (incorporating an anti-bullying strategy) which had been in place since 2004.
“The Company’s intent and expectations with regard to acceptable behaviour in the workplace are expressed in our employee contracts, policies and in regular workplace briefing sessions and training,” the spokesperson said.
“Individuals are expected to abide by the company policies. Should an individual choose to breach any such policy, immediate disciplinary action is taken by the company.”
