September 17, 2010
Muslim postal workers denied the chance to celebrate the end of the holy month Ramadan have threatened legal action on grounds of religious discrimination.
Muslim staff at Royal Mail’s regional distribution centre in Leeds, claim that in the past they were allowed to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr – the end of the holy month of Ramadan. But this year, around 50 workers were told they could not have the day off "for operational reasons".
Many, however, refused to turn up and are now facing disciplinary hearings over "unauthorised absences".
"In previous years shifts have been organised so there was cover for those who wanted to celebrate Eid. For some reason this year the management either forgot to do this or deliberately did not do it,” one employee told the Yorkshire Evening Post.
"It is the most important time of the year for many of us and it is very important we are with our families. I was not prepared to work."
While union bosses hurriedly try to secure contractual rights for Ramadan in the future, employees are reportedly gearing up for a legal challenge, alleging racial discrimination.
"We're actively pursuing this. There is another Eid coming up at the end of November and we want to avoid a similar confrontation,” said Andy Lee, Secretary of the Communications Workers Union Leeds branch.
"If we have to then we are prepared to take it to a tribunal because we believe it is a clear case of discrimination."
Traditionally, Muslims do not work during Eid, instead attending several sets of prayers and then, usually, hosting a large celebration for their families.
But, under British employment law there is no specific rule which states that a worker must be given time off for religious holidays or festivals, though employers are encouraged to be "sensitive" to requests.
