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Crunch Manchester derby to create surge in absenteeism

Tonight’s title-deciding football match between Manchester City and Manchester United will have a big impact on absenteeism in Manchester tomorrow, at least according to employment law experts ELAS.

Head of Consultancy Peter Mooney said ““Everyone in the city is gripped by tonight’s big match, and whichever way the result goes, half the fans are likely to be celebrating.”

“But come tomorrow morning, tonight’s fever pitch will feel very flat for employers looking at a long list of people who have developed mysterious illnesses or have struggled to make it in on time.

“Whatever happens, we estimate that around one in five workers will be affected tomorrow morning, with slightly more ringing in sick if the match goes City’s way.”

A draw wouldn’t be enough for Manchester City fans, who are three points behind in the title race, to wake up happy on Tuesday morning.

Mr Mooney added: “Winning the title would probably be a bigger deal for City fans than it would for United, which is why we’re expecting a slightly higher number of people ringing in sick if tonight’s match goes their way.

According to the report, up to a fifth of workers in Manchester are expected to either call in sick or turn up to work late.

What are your thoughts on this issue? Should staff be warned or disciplined for their absenteeism following tonight’s game?

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jonny Marshall .