DBS Law Ltd

Employment Law experts warn of potential chaos over time off to cover strikes

DBS Law Head of Employment warns employees and employers to make firm arrangements to cover childcare in the event of tomorrows strike.

 Paul Griffin said, “Anyone thinking of phoning into the office tomorrow and claiming absence on the grounds of a parental emergency could find themselves in hot water.  Whilst parents are entitled to unpaid time off to arrange childcare due to sickness or some other such unpredictable event, these strikes have been known about for months.  Employers could argue that this situation does not qualify as an emergency and take disciplinary action against individuals who don’t turn up for work.

 “Of course employers will have to deal with the resentment that this kind of action would generate but for companies looking to make urgent cuts in the workforce this may be a price worth paying.  Our advice to both parties is to talk today before it’s too late.”