Sacked Meliá Hotels staff member re-instated and charges dropped

According to the trade union Unite, London worker Robert Czegley lost his job at the STK steakhouse by Melià – on London’s Strand in Aldwych ‒ in May, after a flyer in support of fair pay was found in his work locker. He was accused of “gross misconduct” and sacked, it was reported at the time.

The Spanish-led hotel group was then expected to be accused of unfair dismissal at trial, after Czegley claimed the company’s actions had been too harsh. The case was also the subject of a solidarity protest by Unite in early June.

Yet now, all charges between the parties have now been dropped, with Czegely re-instated to his former role and all legal proceedings withdrawn.

Gioele Camarlinghi UK area director at Meliá Hotels International, said: "We are satisfied with the outcome, which demonstrates how open dialogue and a collaborative approach can lead to a better understanding and more productive cooperation with the union."

Dave Turnbull, Unite regional officer confirmed the charges had been dropped, and said: "We are pleased to have been able to constructively engage with company representatives to bring about this positive outcome. We look forward to working closely together over the coming weeks."