Workplace bullying is more prevalent in the public service than in the private sector, but is more likely to damage productivity by causing absences in the latter.

That’s according to a new study from NUI Galway, which estimates that bullying-related absences account for 1.7 million lost working days a year, and a total annual cost to the economy of almost €240 million.

The study builds on previous research from the university, which showed the relationship between bullying and work-related stress. The new study looks at the economic costs.

John Cullinan, who led the research team, said increased incidents of remote working on foot of the Covid-19 crisis was unlikely to eliminate bullying-related costs.

His colleague Margaret Hodgins added that the significant economic cost of bullying, as well as the damaging personal impact, warranted a more proactive policy approach to the issue.

Read the report HERE.

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