Members of parliament are promoting the idea of abolishing a second public holiday in order to finance the autonomy branch of the Social Security system. The proposal is the subject of intense debate, while the French Minister of the Economy, Antoine Armand, describes it as “one of several possible solutions”.

The Solidarity Day and its current role

Launched in 2004 after the 2003 heatwave, the Solidarity Day helps to finance the independence of the elderly, in particular in EHPAD (establishments providing accommodation for the dependent elderly). Employers contribute 0.3% of their total payroll, generating some 2.4 billion euros each year. However, this sum is still insufficient to meet the financing needs of the Autonomy branch, which has recorded revenues of 41.8 billion euros in 2023.

The proposal for a second day of solidarity

The idea of adding a second day of solidarity has recently been revived by several members of parliament, notably in the Senate. This proposal aims to increase the funding allocated to medico-social establishments. Although this initiative is supported by some, it has also provoked strong criticism. The project’s rapporteur, Laurent Vachey, had already highlighted, in a 2019 report, the risks of a negative impact on the economy and employment.

Opposition to the measure

Trade unions and some members of parliament have reservations about the proposal. Ecologist Senator Anne Souyris criticizes the fact that this additional contribution would only concern workers, while excluding other sources of financing, such as dividends or financial income. Others, such as the CGT, point out that employees have already had to bear the brunt of several social reforms in recent years, and consider it unfair to impose a new burden.

Openness to government dialogue

Although the government has not officially presented this proposal, it seems open to discussion. Budget Minister Laurent de Saint-Martin has expressed his willingness to debate the issue in Parliament, stressing that any measure that strengthens the solidarity effort would be a step in the right direction. For his part, Antoine Armand described the idea as “very interesting”, but remained cautious, pointing out that it would be “just one of a number of possibilities”.

Public holidays in France

The French currently enjoy 11 public holidays, a relatively high number compared to other European countries. However, no specific public holidays are targeted by the proposed deletion. Certain dates, such as November 11, are considered untouchable. The Souvenir Français association, for example, has already expressed its opposition to any change to this symbolic date.

The economic and political stakes of the proposal

The elimination of a public holiday is a politically sensitive issue, particularly given the French people’s attachment to these days off. While some economists believe that such a measure could have a moderate economic impact for businesses, it could nonetheless provoke some resistance. Sociologist Jean Viard points out that, although this could be a less painful solution than raising social security contributions or taxes, the risk of discontent remains high.

Although the proposal to abolish a public holiday to finance the autonomy branch is gaining ground, it raises legitimate questions and would be difficult to pass without a wide-ranging debate. The government seems attentive to these questions, but the implementation of such a measure does not yet seem certain.