Local council workers in the North take an average of three weeks off sick, according to official figures out today.

The high sickness level is costing the taxpayer around £16m-a-year.

The highest average rates were recorded by workers in Larne, who take 20 sick days each year, compared to just eight in Magherafelt, Co Derry.

The reasons for sickness were not acute illnesses such like cancer or heart problems, but stress, depression and fatigue.

The main union involved has admitted that the levels appear staggering, but says many council workers operate outdoors in all weathers.

The Chief Local Government Auditor is calling on councils with high rates to re-examine their management practices.