For 16 years, the French have contributed financially to aid the elderly dependent through the solidarity day, fixed in law on this Whit Monday. But this day promises to be special for many employees, many of whom will be teleworking because of the coronavirus pandemic. Europe 1 wondered how much money this Whit Monday brings, and whether this day is still, or not, really unemployed.
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A day of solidarity which does not necessarily take place on Whit Monday
Originally, everyone had to work on Whit Monday, according to the solidarity day set by the Raffarin government in 2004. But the rule only lasted four years: very quickly, under pressure from professionals tourism, the legislator has left companies the freedom to organize the implementation of this day of solidarity as they see fit. It can take place either on Whit Monday or on another day of the year.
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A levy corresponding to 0.3% of the annual payroll
Each company has therefore defined its own rule. Those who work today are those who are traditionally forced to work on public holidays, nothing more. This day has in fact become a levy corresponding to 0.3% of the annual payroll. Since 2013, this tax has been extended to retirees. This sum is paid annually to the National Solidarity Fund for Autonomy. And this year, this day of solidarity should bring in 3 billion euros.