St Patrick's Day hangover means 'lost productivity'
18-03-2008
Following St Patrick's Day celebrations yesterday, it is estimated that 300,000 Britons will be feeling too hungover to work.
According to research by Abbey, four million Brits were intending to celebrate the patron saint of Ireland last night, with one in ten expecting to drink alcoholic beverages as part of the event.
However, the bank estimated that the St Patrick's Day hangover may cost the economy £27 million as the average wage now stands at £90.40 a day.
Paula Ickinger of Abbey Business Banking noted the impact the Irish-themed celebrations may have on businesses.
"Small businesses depend greatly on their staff and so even small amounts of time lost can really impact on their profitability," she said.
She added that taking time off could be "detrimental" not only to the company but also to the employee.
The prime minister of Ireland, Bertie Ahern, urged revelers to "not go over the top" when celebrating yesterday.