The Spanish government has accepted the introduction of paid “weather leave”. People living in areas affected by weather conditions have four additional days. This regulation was approved almost a month after the tragic floods that devastated Valencia.
As Labor Minister Yolanda Diaz explained, the four-day leave will be given to employees who cannot reach their workplace due to extreme weather conditions and cannot work remotely.
Orange or red alert
The rules apply when the relevant authorities – from local authorities to national agencies – issue an orange or red warning for adverse weather conditions. If the unfavorable weather conditions do not disappear within four days, the employee has the right to extend the vacation.
The new rules must be published in the Official Gazette on Friday and approved by parliament within a month. The initiative is inspired by similar agreements adopted in Canada.
One month after the accident
This project was adopted by the government a month after the tragic floods in the south-east of Spain. This natural disaster killed more than 220 people, mainly in Valencia region. “The Guardian” noted that several companies operating in the region have come under fire for ordering employees to report to their offices despite a red weather warning. The companies later explained that the government authorities sent the notices too late.
PAP, The Guardian, Europa Press
Main photo source: PAP/EPA/KAI FORSTERLING
