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Bill Munro speaks of ‘traumatic’ and ‘harrowing’ tribunal
Barrhead Travel founder Bill Munro has spoken out after a tribunal agreed he was unfairly dismissed by the group’s new parent, US firm Travel Leaders.
In a frank statement today, he said:
"This has been a harrowing, emotional and stressful time. I have had to endure the ordeal of having my life’s achievements being tradduced in public.
I worked hard for decades to build my company and reputation. Is it any wonder I came close to tears as I gave evidence?
The treatment to which I was subjected was dreadful and I felt humiliated. But I am a strong and determined person and was never going to lie down.
In my career I have been awarded three lifetime achievement awards – two in the UK travel industry and a third from the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce. These mean the world to me.
And my reputation was brought into question.
I am delighted the tribunal has vindicated me. It has been a traumatic episode at a time when I should be enjoying the rewards of my working life. But the outcome has made it worthwhile and I am grateful to the tribunal, to my solicitor, Stephen Miller, and my many friends and ex colleagues for their support.
This was never about the money – it was about much more than that … my reputation and my standing in the industry.
I also feel for the staff who were with me over many years, some of whom have left their jobs and I feel a sense of responsibility.
Richard Branson told me that if you’re in business just to create money you won’t – there must be other reasons. He is absolutely correct.
I shall take some time to reflect as I consider the challenges which lie ahead. Despite my years, I remain young in mind and spirit.
And much more remains to be said and done. It may be the case that there will be further legal action in the future."
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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