Industrial tribunal

A This German presenter hosted TV show which assembled groups of journalists to discuss topical problems. At its height, and as a result of the ability of the presenter, the programme attracted 100 million viewers. He lost his job after revelations that he was a “desk was criminal”; during the Second World War he had written newspaper articles in favour of Nazi activists, such as executions.

B This air hostess was sacked after she returned rather overweight to work, six months after giving birth. The airline company claimed that their image would suffer and that the hostess was having difficulty moving down the aisle in the plane.

C This captain was the first to leave his sinking ship. He escaped on a helicopter where he claimed he was able to coordinate the operation better. He left 160 passengers on board, all of whom survived. He was dismissed for unethical behaviour.

D This man, whose job involved high precision technical work, was dismissed for drinking alcohol at home on a Sunday night. He had signed a contract which stated that he was not allowed to smoke, drink alcohol or take high-cholesterol snacks either at work or home.

Exercise 24. Make up dialogues on the following topics:

4. You are talking to a foreigner looking for a job in Ukraine. Explain the employment problems in this country.

5. Your younger sister made up her mind to become an actress. Try to discourage her.

6. You are interviewing Peter Wilson who after 40 years of full working life and 30 years as managing director of his own company is now retired.

Exercise 25. Writing assignments:

• Who should be paid most?

• My job stereotypes.

• What’s my line?

• To succeed in life one should have a drop of talent or an ocean of endeavour?

40