Could axing two national holidays save France from its mountain of debt?
Summary
French Prime Minister François Bayrou suggested cutting two national holidays, Easter Monday and 8 May, to improve the country's finances. This proposal has received mixed reactions, with opposition from various political groups and concerns about its impact on French workers.Key Facts
- France has 11 national holidays, similar to countries like Germany and the US.
- Prime Minister François Bayrou proposed eliminating Easter Monday and 8 May holidays.
- The plan aims to increase productivity by having people work two extra days without additional pay.
- The suggestion received backlash from different political groups in France.
- France's productivity per worker is higher than the UK's, despite having the same number of holidays.
- A similar proposal in 2003 resulted in Whit Monday becoming a voluntary working day, raising significant funds for social services.
- Historically, Charles de Gaulle removed a holiday in 1959 to save costs, which was later reinstated in 1981.
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