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Gaetan
Apologies if I came accross as being insensitive.
My point was just that if, IN THE OPINION OF THE RIGHTS COMM, the period within which to object has expired, I suspect it would be very difficult for an employment law solicitor get a result on your behalf. The first question the judge would ask is why the normal statutory mechanisms hadn't been availed of. While the reasons you have already given here are no doubt reasonable in your mind, you run the risk that the judge won't think likewise (and this is a very real risk). If the case was to be thrown out for this reason, you might be liable for the other party's legal costs as well as your own.
In addition, as this would be a private civil case, a fine would not apply. While you say you are not interested in profiting from the experience, it would be rare (because of the expense and risk) to pursue a civil matter purely on a point of principle. However, if successful, a monetary award in respect of damages suffered would be the most likely outcome.
In circumstances such as yours, most people end up biting their lip and moving on - not because they are prepared to accept the position, but because of the expense and risk of going the legal route. Apologies for assuming you fit into this category.