Didn't the company change it's tracking methods for sick leave 3 years ago?

Sorry, waving your hands at us saying "it's gone up 35%" is not providing facts.

Until we see the raw data, before and after the company changed it's method of tracking sick leave, then it is an invalid statistic. By definition, not validated, not proven as fact. When the raw data over several years is provided, then the data can be compared versus peers' raw data to determine if it's an actual 35% increase.

If you let me choose the tracking methodology and numbers I can "prove to you" that your car now uses 35% less gas...or 35% more gas. Let me choose the methodology and I can "prove to you" anything.

It's really simple to manipulate numbers...and the company is really good at it when it's time to negotiate.