The French government has confirmed plans to abolish the public holiday status of Easter Monday and May 8, aiming to generate approximately 4.2 billion euros for the state budget by 2026.

Major labor unions, including CFDT, CGT, FO, CFE-CGC, and CFTC, have expressed strong opposition to this plan, viewing it as an attack on workers' rights and a regression of 70 years of social achievements.

Prime Minister François Bayrou first mentioned the holiday removal on July 15, framing it as part of broader budgetary efforts to improve economic competitiveness in France.

The government aims to use this holiday removal to increase annual work volume and productivity, although implementation details are still being finalized.

In response to the government's proposals, unions plan to meet on September 1 to discuss strategies for opposition.

Under the new arrangement, employees will not receive additional pay for the extra hours worked due to the holiday removals; instead, private sector employers will contribute to the state budget in a manner similar to the 'day of solidarity'.

The government has invited social partners to express their willingness to negotiate by September 1, 2025, with negotiations expected to conclude by September 30, 2025.

The document outlining the holiday removal proposal was sent alongside a framework letter regarding unemployment insurance reforms, which targets annual savings of 2 to 2.5 billion euros from 2026 to 2029.

Further details on the implementation of this measure are to be defined, as it is intended to enhance France's economic competitiveness.

While the proposed holidays to be removed are Easter Monday and May 8, the specific days may still be subject to discussion.

This measure will apply to both public and private sector employees, with a deadline for social partners to express interest in negotiations by September 1, 2025.

The proposal, which can still be discussed regarding which holidays to remove, aims to increase annual working hours and enhance economic competitiveness in France.