Former ABC News Correspondent Says He Was Dismissed for Refusing War Zone

[Judi Lynn]

Former ABC News Correspondent Says He Was Dismissed for Refusing War Zone Assignments

By Beth Gardiner
Associated Press Writer

Published: Sep 24, 2005

LONDON (AP) - Richard Gizbert spent more than a decade as an ABC News correspondent, covering wars in Bosnia, Chechnya and Somalia. It was fatherhood, though, that led him to turn down assignments in Iraq and Afghanistan, a decision he believes cost him his job.

An employment tribunal hearing on Gizbert's allegation of unfair dismissal opened Friday. He is seeking $4.2 million in lost earnings.

ABC says war zone assignments are voluntary and argues that its decision not to renew Gizbert's freelance contract was motivated by budget pressures.

The case highlights difficulties facing news organizations and journalists as major stories erupt in conflict zones, making journalism an increasingly dangerous profession.
(snip/...)

http://ap.tbo.com/ap/breaking/MGBSYOTGZDE.html

[aquart]

1. Sure. Like there never used to be "conflict zones."

I hear WWII had a few.

[Tace]

2. Freelance Means Not An Employee

They have no obligation to him, if he was a freelancer.

[lateo]

3. Someone call a waaaaambulance!

I just can feel sorry for these media whores.