The Union has pursued a claim with An Post for employees out of work on sick leave on a public holiday, that they receive a day in lieu.

The Union is pleased to confirm that the following was agreed at the Joint Conciliation Council:

Subject to certain criteria being met, an  employee who is absent from work on certified sick leave immediately before a public holiday or privilege day, is entitled to benefit from a day in lieu of the public holiday or privilege day unless the absence is:

 (i)       in excess of 52 weeks by reason of occupational injury;

(ii)       in excess of 26 weeks by reason of illness or injury;

The following criteria must be met before leave in lieu, for an employee who is absent due to illness on a public holiday, can be authorised:

i. A medical certificate in respect of the sick absence must be provided
ii. The day in lieu must be taken by the employee within one month of the public holiday concerned
iii. The timing of the taking of the day in lieu must be agreed with the employee’s line manager and will be subject to operational considerations

The provisions of this Circular will be applied by the Company from the Bank Holiday on the 25th December 2005.