Richmond Valley Notes

with Therese Schier

Unfair dismissal claim settled

Casino woman Hailey Stevens received an out-of-court settlement from Casino dentist Robert Foster on Monday after the NSW Industrial Relations Commission ruled she had been a victim of unfair dismissal.

Hailey claimed that in her initial job interview with Mr Foster he had said he didn't want any "stuff ups" and when she fell pregnant in July last year he told her she should leave after five or six months.

Hailey said when she was forced to take six days sick leave he became increasingly angry and when she told him she wanted to continue working, he sacked her.

"I was seven months pregnant and being shouted at - it was very distressing," Hailey said.

While Hailey said she cannot reveal the amount she received in the settlement, she told The Echo she was relieved that her claim has been substantiated.

"I'm pleased it's all over," she said. "I'm pleased I proved him wrong."

Casino Ratepayers Association

Casino's Pam Brayley, Owen Crawford and David Hoffman are maintaining their rage over Richmond Valley Council's decision to increase sewerage rates to $700 per annum, and are now forming a Casino Ratepayers Association to fight the rate hike.

A newly formed steering committee will hold an initial public meeting within the next three weeks and organiser Pam Brayley said ratepayers need to attend this meeting if they want a voice.

"This is the only way we're going to get Richmond Valley Council to listen," she said. "We thought Council made it clear that next year it will go up again. I don't know how people will afford this. With petrol, and electricity going up you constantly have to put your hand in your pocket."

Keep an eye on The Echo for details of the public meeting.

Sesquicentenary celebrations

Richmond Valley Council is seeking individuals and community groups to help make Casino's sesquicentenary celebrations a success.

Richmond Valley mayor Charlie Cox said volunteers are needed for the event, which will be held over the October long weekend.

"People may choose to volunteer their time over three days, three weeks or three months... whatever people can give will help!" he said.

To volunteer phone Council on 6660 0300.

• Therese Schier is going overseas for a few weeks. Her column will return on July 21.