MPs approve revised plan to let public sector staff bank more leave or cash it in

TDT | Manama

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Parliament on Tuesday approved a revised plan allowing public sector employees to bank up to 100 days of leave or cash it in.

MPs had sent the proposal back for review last year before approving this version, now backed by the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee.

Pressure

The plan aims to prevent staff from losing accrued leave while easing pressure on understaffed departments. MP Munir Seroor originally proposed raising the leave cap, but after further discussions, the committee added a cash-out option.

“Employees shouldn’t be penalised for being unable to take time off,” he said. “This provides a fairer system while ensuring public services remain uninterrupted.”

Staff shortages

He also cited public sector staff shortages caused by voluntary retirements, estimating that “around 11,000 citizens have retired, disrupting the labour market.”

As a result, he said, “many employees are working overtime or taking on extra duties,” making extended leave entitlements or compensation even more necessary.

The Civil Service Bureau had warned about budget strain and disparities with private sector rules, where employees can only carry over 60 days.

Caution

It also cautioned that long periods without leave could hurt morale and productivity. Despite objections, the committee remains firm on the proposal.

“Allowing staff to bank more leave will improve morale and efficiency,” Seroor said.