Answer Happy

Using Industrial Relations advise Shivani, John and Peter.St. Catherine Catholic School, a private school in Port of Spain, has advertised two posts for mathematics teachers. The school curriculum pays special attention to Catholic education. Shivani Rampersad applies for a job. When she is asked about her religious beliefs at the interview, she explains that she is Hindu. Mary, the headmistress, says to Shivani that this is a religious school, and they want all the teachers to be devout Christians. Shivani explains that since she is teaching math only, her religion has nothing to do with the post, but Mary explains to her that religious education is of great importance to the school and its everyday activities.John, a 60-year-old man, also applies for one of the posts. John is a devout Catholic, so Mary is happy about that. During the interview, though, she asks him if he can understand the needs and interests of the young generations, given his age. She particularly presses him on whether he can use email and social media and online teaching, as the school relies on them heavily for teaching. John says that he has never used them, but he is keen to learn. Mary also asks him if he is planning to retire soon.A third applicant, Peter, is gay, and he mentions it during the interview. Mary has nothing against homosexuality, as she explains, but she knows that many of her colleague’s object to it for religious reasons. She asks Peter if he needs to be open about it at work, and Peter explains that it is a central part of his identity, and that he cannot hide it. Shivani, John and Peter are not appointed to a post by the school. All three of them strongly believe that they have been victims of discrimination. Using Industrial Relations advise Shivani, John and Peter.