Articles

Ex-employee files whistleblower suit

2/14/2005

Source:          - KATC-TV3

Filed under: Whistleblower Protection

Former animal lab employee files whistleblower suit

NEW IBERIA, La. (AP) - A former coordinator of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette New Iberia Research Center has filed a lawsuit against the university, claiming she was fired for voicing concerns about animal cruelty at the facility.

In the state district court suit, Narriman Fakier accuses the university of wrongful termination, retaliatory discharge, violation of free speech rights and violation of whistleblower statutes.

According to the lawsuit, Fakier "repeatedly blew the whistle" about perceived violations of the federal Animal Welfare Act at the facility. She claims she was forced to resign due to the concerns in February of 2004.

NIRC Director Thomas Rowell said he had not seen the lawsuit, and declined to comment.

The 100-acre research center employs more than 250 people. More than 6,000 primates are housed at the facility.

This page is best printed in landscape orientation. If you are having trouble seeing some of the images, try reviewing your browsers configuration. In Internet Explorer, go to Tools=>Internet Options=>Advanced and then make sure Print background colors and images is checked.