Fireman sues over non-promotion

A FIREMAN with 23 years service has filed a constitutional motion against the Chief Fire Officer, alleging discrimination after not being promoted to a higher rank in the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service. Michael Dindayal, 49, of Bertrand Street, San Fernando, filed the motion yesterday. He is contending that although he holds a certificate from the Institute of Fire Engineers in the United Kingdom, he has been constantly denied promotion each year for the past 23 years. The writ was filed by attorney Anand Ramlogan in the Sub-Registry in San Fernando. Dindayal stated in an affidavit filed along with the motion that he completed numerous other courses in fire-fighting geared towards enhancing his chances of promotion. He exhibited seven letters of commendation for outstanding service as a fireman.

The fireman stated that over the years, he had witnessed other firemen of his rank promoted above him while others, junior to him, were given acting appointments in a rank senior to him. Dindayal stated that his staff reports gave him an excellent performance rating as a fireman. He stated that during his 23 years in the service, he has never been the subject of any disciplinary action. Dindayal is seeking to have the High Court grant him a declaration that the TTFS has treated him unfairly and has discriminated against him. This, he contended, is unconstitutional. Dindayal is seeking damages. Hearing of the motion has been fixed for next month.