Madam, - Persistent bullying can be extremely damaging to the health and wellbeing of the recipient. It can affect the emotional and physical health of its victim. This can lead to loss of confidence, low self-esteem and severe stress. The victim may require to take time off work to recover from this anxiety and stress. If the medical certificate to the employer states stress as a reason for being unfit for work, this is now being used by a small number of employers in an unethical manner, to require the employee to attend for a medical assessment with a psychiatrist of the employer's choice. I would urge that the procedures published by the Health and Safety Authority be followed by employers to ensure transparency in dealing properly and ethically with bullying allegations. - Yours, etc,
MICHAEL FREELEY, Kiltimagh, Co Mayo.