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(Montreal) Retail giant Wal-Mart succeeded Friday in beating a class-action lawsuit filed by an employee who says he lost his livelihood when the chain closed its Saguenay store.

However, the lawyer for the employee may appeal the Quebec Superior Court decision in the chain's favour.

The Saguenay store was closed April 29 as workers sought to form a union. Wal-Mart has maintained that had nothing to do with closing the outlet and says it was shut because it was not making money.

Wal-Mart's lawyers argued Alain Pedneault's case was more appropriate for the Quebec Labour Relations Board.

Justice Marc Beaudoin agreed Friday. He ruled the board is capable of handling the case and granting damages to Pedneault if he won.

Gilles Gareau, a lawyer for Pedneault, said he could not see the sense behind the judgment and will consider an appeal.

Yanik Deschenes, a spokesman for Wal-Mart, said the retailer was satisfied with the judge's decision.

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