Harney signs order for day of mourning

Following the Government Decision to designate Friday, 14 September as a Day of National Mourning, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Harney signed an Order under the Organisation of Working Time Act giving effect to the decision.

The Tánaiste pointed out that with limited exceptions such as emergency services, all schools, Government Departments and Offices will be closed.

She urged all employers as far as is practicable to close their premises in sympathy with all those killed and injured in yesterday’s terrorist attacks in the United States.

The Tánaiste confirmed that the effect of the Order is to provide that employees are entitled to a paid day off on Friday.

Questions may arise regarding days off in lieu for those who are required to work on Friday.

In the normal course on a public holiday the following arrangements apply, as determined by the employer

-a paid day off within a month of that day

-an additional day's leave

-an additional day's pay

Queries in relation to this matter should be directed to the Employment Rights Information Unit at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment at lo-call Tel. No's 1890-201-615 or 1890-220-222 or 01-6313131.

This service will be available tonight until 8.00 p.m. and on Thursday from 9.30a.m.until 8.00 p.m..