Worker told poppy is 'offensive'
A man claims he was given a written warning by his company after refusing to remove a Remembrance Day poppy because his work mates found it 'offensive'.
The man, known only as Paul, told 3AW his workmates claimed the traditional emblem of remembrance celebrates war and death.
"I've worn a poppy two days before November 11 for the last 11 to 12 years," he told Neil Mitchell's program.
"This year my boss came up to me and said 'we have had a couple of complaints in relation to the poppy you are wearing on your top. They find it offensive and can you please take it off'."
Poll: Should Remembrance Day poppies be banned in the workplace?
But instead of complying with the alleged demands, Paul said he bluntly refused.
"I have been wearing it for many years now, it's a tradition I like to do and pay my respects to the people who have fought on my behalf and my family's behalf and everyone's in Australia, and I will not be taking it off."
In response, Paul claims his boss issued him with a written warning that will remain on record.
Paul insists he was happy to risk losing his job in the transport industry to stay true to his beliefs.
"I said I'm not taking it off, even if I have to lose my job. I have a right to wear it and I find it offensive that they asked me to take it off."
Next year, Paul insists he will wear two poppies to work.
What do you think? Should Remembrance Day poppies be banned in the workplace?
