Public service chiefs seek €25m sick leave cost cut

Public service management want to cut the cost of sick leave by 5% or €25m by the end of the year.

Trade unions have already rejected proposals to greatly reduce the sick-leave entitlements which apply to the State’s employees. Further talks are expected at the Labour Relations Commission.

At present, staff can take up to seven paid, uncertified (leave without a doctor’s certificate) sick days per year.