Source: The Telegraph [UK]
“German workers will have to report to a doctor in person to get a sick note on the first day they are ill, under strict proposals from Friedrich Merz. The tough new rules, aimed at boosting productivity in Germany’s stagnant economy, replace a system where employees could get a note by phoning a doctor and did not need to do so until their third day off work. … The move will be welcomed by employers, but has angered Germany’s powerful trade unions. Frank Werneke, the head of the services sector union Verdi, accused Mr Merz of creating ‘a culture of distrust of employees.’ Doctors also opposed the change, warning it would swamp Germany’s GPs with unnecessary appointments.” [editor’s note: The claim that any of that is any of the government’s business is both idiotic and horrifying – TLK] (07/02/26)