14:42 3 December 2024
Ban on working on Christmas Eve pits unions against businesses
Trade unions and business groups are divided over the proposal to make Christmas Eve a public holiday in Poland starting this year. Unions support the initiative, citing improved employee well-being and potential long-term economic benefits, such as increased motivation and productivity. Conversely, business representatives oppose it, emphasizing economic impacts and challenges to workplace organization due to the growing number of public holidays.
The proposal, currently under parliamentary review, faces timing challenges, with some officials, like Sejm Speaker Szymon Hołownia, doubting its feasibility for 2024. Business organizations, including the Polish Chamber of Commerce, advocate for a phased introduction, suggesting alternative solutions like swapping holidays or additional working Sundays for retailers to mitigate disruptions.
