Sat Mar 29 05:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Belfast Woman Awarded £215,000 in Citibank Maternity Discrimination Settlement
**Belfast, Northern Ireland** – A former Citibank assistant vice president, Maeve Bradley, has received a £215,000 settlement after alleging sex discrimination following her maternity leave. The settlement, reached without admission of liability, concludes a case supported by the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.
Bradley claims she was overlooked for a promotion to Vice President while on maternity leave in 2023, with the position instead going to the employee who temporarily covered her role. She alleges that upon requesting reduced hours upon her return due to childcare needs, she was offered an unsuitable alternative position. Further, she claims her grievance regarding the promotion was not properly addressed by the bank.
Bradley, who stated her performance reviews were consistently excellent, argued that she was discriminated against for taking maternity leave. She pursued legal action alleging sex discrimination, disability discrimination, and victimisation, citing the handling of her grievance and perceived lack of support for her return to work.
The Equality Commission’s Chief Commissioner, Geraldine McGahey, highlighted that pregnancy-related discrimination is a frequent complaint. She emphasized the importance of laws protecting women from such discrimination, ensuring they can maintain their careers without penalty for having children.
Citibank expressed disappointment that an agreement on Bradley’s return to work could not be reached but stated their commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. Bradley’s employment with the firm was terminated as part of the settlement. She stated her goal in pursuing the case was to prevent other women from facing similar disadvantages.
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