Google affirms employees' right to free speech

The internet giant was recently accused of violating workers’ right to voice out complaints

Google affirms employees' right to free speech

Google employees are free to discuss politics and workplace issues openly at work, the internet company agreed to remind staff.

The move is part of a settlement with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which seeks to put an end to allegations that the company restricts employees’ right to free speech.

Google was accused of violating its workers’ right to voice out complaints after it terminated Kevin Cernekee, an engineer who claimed he was sacked for expressing conservative political views at work.

READ MORE: No politics at work? Google CEO warns staff against bias

“We have agreed to a proposed settlement with the NLRB of Mr. Cernekee’s complaint,” a Google representative issued a statement. “Under that settlement, we have agreed to post a notice to our employees reminding them of their rights under the National Labor Relations Act.”

The agreement also comes in response to another suit filed by an anonymous employee who claimed he faced retaliation for criticising a senior executive.

In recent months, Google has come under fire from a broad spectrum of employee activists over its handling of misconduct allegations, treatment of temporary and contractual employees, and response to critics within the organization, including what many perceived as retaliation against employees. Google has denied these allegations.

Recent articles & video

Ai Group seeks 2.8% minimum wage hike in 2024

Australia's job vacancies fall 6.2% in February

Love and business: Can a break-up lead to unjust dismissal?

Worker claims unfair demotion after temporary supervisor role ended

Most Read Articles

Employer shoots down worker's request for 'mutual separation'

Payroll officer charged for stealing over $1 million from employer: reports

Fair Work: 'Workplace trauma' didn't lead to forced resignation