Skip to content
Support Us

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Man on Ha’penny Bridge during Storm Brendan Leah Farrell

Should workers get paid 'climate leave'?

A union has suggested that ‘climate leave’ would ‘ensure that workers’ lives and incomes are protected during extreme weather.’

UNITE TRADE UNION is seeking a meeting with Enterprise Minister Peter Burke to discuss its proposals of a statutory maximum working temperature and four days of paid “climate leave”.

The union called for an action level of 24C where heat management controls must be put in place and an a maximum temperature of 30 degrees – or 27 degrees for “strenuous jobs”.

It also suggests that “climate leave” should apply when extreme weather conditions make travelling hazardous or result in pressing household needs for workers.

A survey conducted by Unite found that the majority of respondents did not feel safe travelling to and from work during Storm Éowyn and many people had to take annual leave or unpaid leave.

 So today we’re asking: Should workers get paid ‘climate leave’?


Poll Results:

No (3990)
Yes (2414)
Unsure (498)

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
98 Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a comment

     
    cancel reply
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds