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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
National
RFI

Why does France want to scrap two of its public holidays?

The French flag flies at the Place de la République in Paris, June 2024. © Fabrizio Bensch / Reuters

France’s government is weighing a controversial move – scrapping two public holidays – as part of a push to fill state coffers. Prime Minister François Bayrou has given unions and employers until 30 September to discuss the measure, or risk the government pushing it through.

Prime Minister François Bayrou first touted the idea during the announcement of his 2026 budget plan on 15 July.

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