French PM proposes cutting public holidays

The proposal, part of an effort to escape the country’s budget crisis, will likely spark public furor.

French PM suggests cutting public holidays to tackle debt

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou has proposed removing two public holidays as part of a critical plan to reduce the country's €3.3 trillion public debt. This decision comes in an effort to lower the persistent budget deficit, which has violated European standards. The proposed reductions aim to address spending by cutting 3,000 civil servant jobs and freezing salaries for some government workers. Bayrou argues that France must act decisively to avoid situations faced by Greece and Spain during their debt crises. However, the proposal has already met resistance from various political factions, including the Greens and far-right National Rally, indicating a potential threat to his minority government.

This proposal signifies a difficult turning point for France, as it reflects the government's urgency in confronting rising public debt. By suggesting the removal of public holidays, Bayrou not only targets economic reforms but also risks triggering widespread public backlash. Political divisions are already apparent, showing how deeply contentious these fiscal choices can be in a country that values its holiday system. The measure would likely be seen as an encroachment on workers' rights and could spark protests, reminding us that economic decisions are never just numbers on a balance sheet, but issues that affect people's daily lives.

Highlights

The coming weeks will reveal how the public reacts to these concerning budget measures.