Special leave policy temporarily adjusted for Independence Referendum

Following discussions with Election Team staff, Counting Officer and Chief Executive Colin Mackenzie has decided to temporarily adjust the special leave policy exclusively for the referendum.

Those involved in postal vote opening between September 8 and 18 and those who will be working at polling stations on September 18 are eligible to do so under special leave provisions i.e. annual leave does not need to be used.

For Council staff working at the referendum count overnight on September 18/19 the adjustment to the special leave policy means that if the count should conclude after 3am, you do not require to be at your place of work until 1pm later that day (Friday, September 19). This rule usually only applies after 5am.

Mr Mackenzie said: “I’ve taken this decision because of the magnitude of the occasion and especially the huge staffing demands it is placing on the Council.

“There are also considerations about the health and wellbeing of staff, who may have long distances to travel home after the count before having to be ready for work the next morning.

“We value the efforts of all those who have offered to be involved in this historic event and will always listen to any suggestions they may have.”

You should notify your line manager as soon as you can of the possibility that this may occur.