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Member, Beacon International Group, Ltd.
COLUMBUS, OhioThe Ohio Workers Compensation Council agreed Friday to pay $55,000 to settle religious discrimination charges that three former employees brought against the organization and its director.
A former executive assistant and two former staff attorneys alleged OWCC Director Virginia McInerney engaged in religious discrimination and wrongfully discharged them, according to reports. The former employees claimed Ms. McInerney inquired about their religious beliefs, asked them to pray aloud and to listen to recordings of sermons.
In addition to the $55,000 settlement, which is pending court approval, the OWCC will pay $15,000 in attorney fees for the former employees.
The employer-funded OWCC is a part of Ohio’s legislative branch created to review the soundness of the state’s workers comp system.
In a statement, Ms. McInerney denied the allegations and said she is looking forward to moving ahead with her work.
“I have a 21-year track record of dedicated service and hard work for the Ohio General Assembly,” Ms. McInerney said. “I stand on a solid record, not only of achievements, but also with respect to my conduct. I believe colleagues who have worked with me over the last two decades would attest to the quality of my work and my character. I am proud of my reputation, which has been built upon many years of demonstrated and proven integrity.”