The europeans have got something right

EVERY worker in Britain will now get at least 28 days a year holiday thanks to a change in the law.

New research has shown that up to six million workers would benefit from an extra eight days holiday each year under the plans.

Some employers currently include the eight bank holidays as part of workers 20-day annual leave entitlement. But as of next year, they won't be able to. Government minister Jim Fitzpatrick has promised a clampdown on dodgy businesses who do not give 28 days leave to their full-time employees.

Most companies already recognise that good holiday provision makes good business sense. Holiday entitlement can be a key factor in recruiting and retaining staff. Holidays are also important for productivity as they help minimise sick leave and keep people motivated and refreshed.

People work hard and they deserve a decent break. We want to make sure everyone gets the holiday they are entitled to. But we're still lagging behind workers in other European countries. Workers in Ireland are entitled to 29 days; the highest minimum entitlement is in Austria at 38 days.

This makes one hell of a difference, compared to the 10 days vacation I had back in Canada… geez.