Could axing two national holidays save France from its mountain of debt?

The French government is considering axing two national holidays in an effort to reduce the country's mounting debt. Prime Minister François Bayrou's proposal has sparked controversy among members of parliament, who are opposed to the idea. The move is part of the government's broader strategy to address France's financial challenges. By eliminating two public holidays, the government aims to increase productivity and generate additional revenue, which could potentially contribute to the country's debt reduction. However, the proposal has faced criticism from lawmakers who argue that reducing national holidays would have a negative impact on the work-life balance of French citizens. The debate highlights the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and social welfare that the government must navigate. While the decision to cut public holidays remains a subject of intense debate, the French government's willingness to explore unconventional measures underscores the severity of the country's economic situation and the need for bold action to address its financial challenges.