This MEP thinks we should have more bank holidays. Do you agree?

Did you know Ireland has the second fewest public holidays in the EU and the third fewest in the world? 

Highlighting the fact this week ahead of the October bank holiday weekend, Fine Gael MEP Brian Hayes said he believed additional days off should now be granted to acknowledge the sacrifices made during the economic crash.

“As a recovery country with pay restoration dominating national debate it’s time to look at our public holidays. The European average is 11 and we lie second last with 9 public holidays a year."

Finland, with 15, and Malta and Spain, with 14, have more than a full working week off than Irish workers.

Mr Hayes says that more bank holidays can generate economic activity and jobs.

“The October bank holiday is the perfect example. Following its introduction by the late Michael O’Leary we saw the growth and development of the Jazz festival in Cork and the Dublin City Marathon. The introduction of the May bank holiday, by Ruairi Quinn in 1994, increased short breaks and signalling the start of the summer season.”

“There has been a lot of talk about the sacrifices made during the crash. Increasing the number of public holidays would be a real way to honour that sacrifice.”

What do you think?