Public Sector Strikes Impact on Private Sector

29/06/2011
Employment law expert Stephen Elliott of Langleys comments:
 
“The real problem, when thousands of public sector workers begin strike action tomorrow (Thursday 30 June), will be childcare as teachers are one of the main groups striking. Most people will take holiday, work flexibly or from home to ensure that their children are looked after as legally employees have no right to any additional leave to deal with the effects of a strike. 
 
“Employees do have a right to take reasonable unpaid time off to deal with "family emergencies" such as an unforeseen breakdown in childcare arrangements but as this strike has been well publicised and on the cards for some time, it will not qualify as an "emergency". Therefore an employer would be quite within its rights to refuse a request for such leave or to take disciplinary action against an employee who simply did not attend work tomorrow.  
 
“I’d advise employers to be proactive ahead of the strike action, and any further action which could come later in the year, and check to see who will be affected by this, taking steps to ensure that those individuals who are needed at work have made the necessary alternative arrangements.”
 
To speak to Stephen call 01904 683151 or send him an email
 
 
 
 

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