Volcanic Ash Advice

Absence from Work due to Volcanic Ash

I have spoken to HR about the position of members who have not been able to return to work because of the problems caused by volcanic ash. They have stated that they will not pay any employee for time lost as a result of travel difficulties.

The options open to staff are therefore as follows:

• Use annual leave
• Take unpaid leave
• Approach your Manager to see if it is possible to spread the loss over an agreed amount of time.

We sought legal advice on this issue and were informed that any payment would be at the discretion of the employer.

You should also check your travel insurance documents to see if you can claim for any loss of earnings.

Babs Whitfield
Branch Secretary