Re: Media "myths" that get on your nerves
This is a bit of a red herring to be honest. I'll accept I know of some dubious ones, but the employer has the right to get a second opinion.
In fairness to the PSCS, failure to manage absenteeism is not just a feature of them, a large part of the private sector fails to manage its absenteeism.
Re GPs handing out certs - I recall many years ago (when I was in the civil service myself) being told that there were a number of GPs whose medical certs would not be accepted because they were "too easy to get". I presume that this non-acceptance guideline is still possible if HR feel that certs from any GP are "too easily got".
From my own perspective, since I have to make an appointment to see my GP (and generally have to wait several days to get one), and pay €50 to get a cert, I don't go looking for certs at the drop of a hat!
This is a bit of a red herring to be honest. I'll accept I know of some dubious ones, but the employer has the right to get a second opinion.
In fairness to the PSCS, failure to manage absenteeism is not just a feature of them, a large part of the private sector fails to manage its absenteeism.