A Brookline man today filed a federal discrimination lawsuit against Duquesne University, claiming his severe speech impediment and arm ailment prevented him from being hired.

Richard Cardillo, 51, applied and interviewed for an electrician/maintenance job in June. Cardillo is a licensed electrician with more than 27 years of experience, the lawsuit states.

A maintenance supervisor who conducted the interview made 'derogatory comments about Cardillo`s speech' and doubted Cardillo could lift 75 pounds as required for the position, the lawsuit states. The supervisor also told Cardillo he would not be hired because he lacked a license and• experience,• the lawsuit states.

Duquesne`s law department is reviewing the suit but believes the claims are without merit based on an earlier filing with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, said spokeswoman Bridget Fare.

'We do not discriminate in our employment or hiring practices,' she said.

Cardillo, who is being represented by attorney Sam Cordes, accuses the university of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act and seeks an undisclosed amount in damages.

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