The sick leave for parents proposal : an employer’s perception within the iGaming industry in Malta

Abstract

This research set out to proactively analyse the perception of employers in the iGaming industry towards the controversial policy of Sick Leave for Parents while it is still in proposal form at EU level as a directive. The study aims to analyse whether employers have a gendered attitude towards who will be more likely to make use of this entitlement. The research is based on a qualitative study with eight employers, or decision-makers, in the iGaming industry in Malta. Drawing on the perception that this industry is at the forefront of supporting its employees with work and family responsibilities, it was expected that employers in this industry would be more open to this entitlement than employers in other sectors. This expectation was attributed to the concept of sense of entitlement, due to the Scandinavian influence on the industry, and the high number of Nordic employees who dominate the sector and strongly expect employer support for work and family life. Findings indicate that employers are open toward family-friendly benefits such as remote working and flexible working hours to support parents with work and family life. This is influenced by employees’ strong sense of entitlement, a dried-up labour market, and ultimately because these benefits do not result in a loss of productivity for the employer. The results acknowledge that there is a negative perception towards the sick leave for parents policy and other fixed, statutory entitlements because they represent loss of income and a burden. The findings also indicate that employers have a gendered attitude towards who will use the entitlement, suggesting the presence of traditional gender roles and therefore the negative impact such a policy could have on women in the labour market. Findings further suggest that policy utilization would be low due to workplace culture. Some implications for public policy makers are discussed.