Agent dismisses branch manager over offensive anti-Zionist posts 

A branch manager who appeared to celebrate the death of Jewish financier and philanthropist Lord Rothschild and call for other Zionists to die has been removed for her role.

Amanda Hardy, who was a branch manager at Borehamwood-based Barkers Estate and Letting Agents in Hertfordshire, was suspended last week after commenting about the death of financier Lord Rothschild by stating: “The world is a better place with this Zionist dead. Just got to hope all the others follow.”

The post caused offence among many in the local Jewish community who have said they would be uncomfortable working with someone who celebrates the death of a Jew and then suggests that Zionists, who would most likely also be Jews, should die.

A statement from Barkers Estate Agents at the end of last week confirmed that Hardy is no longer employed or associated with the business.

The statement said: “The personal opinions, expressed in the offending and implied anti-Semitic post, which has since been removed, were not only offensive to Jewish staff members, but the whole team including the directors, none of whom share these views and who were all shocked with disbelief at the hateful and inflammatory post.
 

“Barkers has worked hard to build a coveted reputation for integrity and professionalism in the area for nearly 30 years, serving clients of all faiths and religions. It is with deep regret that this reputation has been sullied by one employee’s shameful and unacceptable breach of the company’s well-established code of conduct and social media policy.”

Barkers added that it acted swiftly and in line with laws on employee dismissals.

It said: “Understandably Barkers has received a number of complaints about the now, ex-employee’s personal Facebook post. These are acknowledged and, in the short time since she was suspended, Barkers has attempted to reassure most of these, that firm and decisive action would ensue; taking account of employment laws for dismissal.

“Despite the furore and distraction this incident has caused, the team at Barkers have been heartened and encouraged at the messages of support from mostly, the local Jewish community, others in Israel; including clients, past and present, neighbours, businesses and even some competitors, who know us and despite their dismay at the message content, recognise the strengths and enduring values of the Barkers’ brand, that will overcome this regrettable episode.”