On this third day off in the month, France’s bank holidays have come under attack for contributing to the country’s economic downturn, reports RFI.
A recent study shows that fewer days off would allow the country to save money, while many politicians say the holidays are what make up the fabric of French culture.
Four bank holidays take place during the month of May in France, and this year, they all fall mid-week. In true French tradition, many take off not only the bank holiday, but one or several days off before and after to make for a long weekend.
With France’s economic woes increasing and popularity for French President François Hollande in a free fall, the number of non-working days in the country has come under scrutiny.
Nathalie Arthaud, spokesperson for labour organisation "Lutte ouvrière," told the AFP News Agency that France should actually have more bank holidays, to allow people to take much needed rest from increasing everyday stress.
Read more of this report from RFI.