Council to close schools and nurseries on World Cup bank holiday

Renfrewshire Council schools and nurseries will close for a day next month in celebration of Scotland competing at the World Cup, it has been agreed.

The local authority had already designated Monday, June 15 as an additional public holiday, with councillors hoping it will boost employee morale, community spirit and the hospitality sector.

The proposal landed the unanimous support of elected members at the finance, resources and customer services policy board last month.

However, separate approval was needed for educational establishments and this was given at Thursday’s education and children’s services policy board.

SNP education convener Emma Rodden quipped at the meeting: “I’m sure the weans will be very happy.”

It follows the Scottish Government announcement earlier this year that the date in question, which comes a day after Scotland’s opening match against Haiti, had officially been confirmed as a national bank holiday.

Setting out why the SNP administration wanted to mark the occasion last month, finance convener John Shaw said: “To me, this is more than just a date in the diary, it’s about recognising a rare national occasion that will mean a great deal to many of our staff.

“Scotland reaching the World Cup is something that brings excitement, pride and a real sense of togetherness and, given I was in my 20s the last time it happened, it’s not a regular occurrence.

“By approving the additional public holiday, we show that we as a council are prepared to share in that moment and reflect the national significance of the occasion.”

Taking up the option is expected to spark an estimated additional cost of between £80,000 and £100,000 for essential service provision.

At the time, Councillor Shaw, who represents Renfrew North and Braehead, added: “I appreciate there is a cost attached but it’s a one-off cost and in the context of our wider budget I believe it is proportionate for an event of this scale.

“We should also remember the wider benefits like staff morale, community spirit and the potential boost to local hospitality and leisure businesses.”

Steve Clarke’s side secured their spot at the tournament in November by netting twice in stoppage time, through Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean, to down Denmark 4-2 at Hampden Park and top their qualifying group.

The team will face Haiti (2am UK time on Sunday, June 14), Morocco (11pm on Friday, June 19) and Brazil (11pm on Wednesday, June 24) in the group stage of the competition.