May 10, 2007

*Charges dropped, Subway still needs to be held to account for actions*

Criminal charges against ex-Subway worker and Autonomous Workers Union member Jackie Lang for sharing a diet coke at work were dropped this morning in the Dunedin District Court.

Lang was fired in March after management at one of Subway's Dunedin branches accused her of stealing a free staff drink after she shared it with her friend.

AWU Organiser Bill Clark says the dropping of the charges shows common sense is finally winning out.

"Seeking to charge Jackie over this was always an absurd and vindictive act on the part of Subway. It's just a shame it's taken international condemnation and a concerted local campaign to make them see that.

"We're hoping the good sense that's prevailed over the charges today continues through to the mediation we have now successfully sought with Subway's management.

"The fact remains that Subway sacked Jackie unlawfully and then added the stress of criminal charges. The company needs to be held to account for their behaviour."

After nearly a month of having the charges hanging over her head Lang says she is relieved to have the matter over with.

"To have the police turn up at my house, take me to a cell and then tell me I was charged with theft was a real shock. I'm pleased my name has been cleared but I'm still not very happy about what happened.

"I'm just amazed at how many people came out to take my side over the way I was being treated. It's helped me feel like I'm not alone in this."

The AWU will enter mediation with Subway next week.

ENDS

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