Glasgow City Council will give 28,000 staff an extra public holiday on June 15 to celebrate Scotland's World Cup appearance, costing £520,000. The move follows Scotland's qualification for the tournament, their first since 1998, after defeating Denmark in November. The holiday coincides with Scotland's match against Haiti in Boston.

Councillors debated the decision, with SNP's Allan Casey arguing it would provide a significant financial boost to Glasgow's hospitality sector. The council estimates the holiday could generate economic benefits for local businesses. However, Labour councillors raised concerns about the cost during a period of budget cuts, with Elaine McDougall calling it an excuse for people to get a 'swally'.

Licensing laws in Glasgow will be relaxed to safely manage crowds watching matches. Schools will close on the holiday day, and the council has plans to handle service disruptions. Despite opposition from some councillors, the majority approved the extra day off, which will be funded from council balances. The Scottish government declared the national holiday but left the decision to individual councils, with Western Isles and Moray among those opting out.