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The strong case for more public holidays

Ireland playing catch-up with other EU states

Letters to the Editor. Illustration: Paul Scott
The Irish Times - Letters to the Editor.
Sat Mar 28 2026 - 06:00 • 1 MIN READ

Sir, – I am informed that in Italy, when public holidays fall on either a Tuesday or Thursday, the preceding Monday or succeeding Friday is also designated as a public holiday.

There are no days off when the public holiday falls on a weekend and only the one day off if it falls on a Wednesday.

Italy already has more public holidays than Ireland. In fact, we have fewer public holidays than several EU countries. Maybe this is something we could consider here and hopefully no referendum would be required. – Yours, etc,

STEPHEN DOUGLAS,

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