McDonald’s will investigate allegations that an employee in Ireland was harassed at work after she was raped at a home party, reports RTE.
Ciara Mangan waived her right to anonymity and spoke publicly this week after her former colleague was convicted of raping her 10 years ago.
She said she was made fun of at work with “rape songs” and “rape comments” after the attack, reports RTE.
In a statement, Alistair McCroe, chief executive of the UK and Ireland fast food company, said: “I commend Ciara’s bravery in speaking about her horrific experience. I am deeply appalled by these new allegations and commit to investigating them to our fullest extent through our investigation-handling unit,” reports RTE.
Earlier this week, Mr Macro appointed a new unit to deal with sexual harassment and bullying after admitting the company was “fallen short” following a BBC report on several allegations of harassment within the company.
It employs over 100 former and current employees who claim to have been sexually harassed, harassed or subjected to racism or bullying in the chain.
“The allegations I have heard this week are personally and professionally shocking. I would like to reiterate my unreserved apology to, and empathy with, all those affected in any way, and I commend their bravery in coming forward. We have clearly fallen short in some critical areas, and I am determined to root out any behaviour or conduct that falls below the high standards of respect, safety and inclusion we demand of everyone at McDonald’s, as detailed in our global brand standards,” reports RTE.
Mr Macro said the unit, staffed by HR specialists and lawyers, would remain in place until at least the end of the year.
A BBC report claimed the allegations had not been properly escalated.
“I will make sure that everyone is in no doubt of my own unequivocal insistence on zero tolerance of harassment of any kind and to ensure our non-negotiable message of respect and inclusivity is heard clearly throughout our business,” Mr Macrow added, reports RTE.
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