Spain’s Labor Minister Yolanda Diaz has announced that no one will be required to work during periods of extreme weather.
Spain’s government has implemented legislation providing up to four paid days of leave for employees unable to commute due to “climate emergencies.” This follows the recent devastating flash floods in Valencia that resulted in over 200 fatalities.
The law, approved by the Council of Ministers and enacted on Friday, grants paid leave when extreme weather warnings are issued by relevant authorities.
Minister Diaz stated that no worker will face unnecessary risks. For emergencies exceeding four days, employers can extend the “climate leave,” with the government covering lost wages.
Last month’s torrential rains in Valencia province led to the deaths of at least 229 people. Criticism has been directed at regional president Carlos Mazon for allegedly failing to issue timely warnings.
Mazon has rejected calls for his resignation, claiming insufficient notification from the government’s water monitoring agency.
While Sanchez and King Felipe VI have also faced criticism, Minister Diaz largely attributed blame to Mazon, a member of the conservative People’s Party.
“In response to climate change denial from the right, the Spanish government is committed to environmentally friendly policies,” Diaz declared, alongside the announcement of further financial aid for flood victims. Government assistance for the region currently totals €16.6 billion ($17.5 billion).