COUNCIL workers in Argyll and Bute will not automatically get an extra day’s holiday to mark Scotland’s first game at the men’s World Cup for 28 years.
A bank holiday has been declared in Scotland for Monday, June 15, the day after Scotland play Haiti in Boston with a 2am kick-off.
But councillors have unanimously agreed recommendations in a report which said that it should not be designated as an additional bank holiday.
It also said that the additional cost of paying employees to carry out essential work on a public holiday was previously estimated at £23,000.
Workers will be able to apply for annual leave through the usual channels if they wish to have time off on the bank holiday date. The decision was made at a meeting of the full council on Wednesday, February 25.
Councillor Andrew Vennard (Conservative, Oban North and Lorn) said: “I would concur with what is set out in the paper, with the cost to the council and, as the report states, staff can apply if they want to take time off. The Scotland match is on the Sunday morning.
“You want to recognise the Scotland team in everything, but not to the extent of holidays.”
Councillor Mark Irvine (Independent, Lomond North) then asked: “Considering these are some very early morning starts, should we not also advise staff to be careful getting up to watch the football and celebrating results?
“Should we consider some guidance for staff wishing to watch matches that are all-nighters?”
Executive director Kirsty Flanagan responded: “I think that falls withing the code of conduct that employees would have to abide by anyway.”
Ms Flanagan had previously written in a report: “The council is facing a challenging financial outlook and considering options to close a significant budget deficit.
“The financial and reputational impacts associated with the award of additional holiday for public sector staff must be balanced with the benefits it would provide.
“On balance, it is recommended that an additional day’s holiday is not provided. Instead, employees who wish to mark the occasion may request annual leave in line with normal procedures.
“Managers will be encouraged to offer flexibility where possible, while ensuring minimum service levels are maintained.”
The area’s licensing board decided the day before the council meeting that it would go out to consultation among police, environmental health, the licensed trade and the public on extended opening hours on Scotland’s matchdays during the World Cup.
