Bakers May Face Inspections: Minister Delivers Warning on Potential Verification Processes
Will your bakery grind flour on May 1st? Technically, no. On that day, "according to French law, is the only day of the year that is indeed a holiday, but above all a public holiday" as Minister of Labour Catherine Vautrin pointed out on April 22nd during her visit to Sud Radio. However, it's a common occurrence for bakers, along with florists and other small businesses, to shun the ban and keep their establishments open, potentially inviting the scrutiny of labour inspectors.
"It's the inspectors who determine their inspection plans", Catherine Vautrin explains, emphasizing "the independence of the Labour Inspectorate as a major issue" for her. Consequently, on May 1st, she will step aside, leaving the inspectors to perform their duties—inspecting and even penalizing those who work against the law. Yet, the minister clarifies: "I advise bakers that they can work, just like their non-salaried spouses*"—bringing in their employees, even with their consent, is off-limits.
Working on May 1st: what are the rules? ### The Union of Proximity Businesses advocates for leniency
The ban on small businesses opening on May 1st has sparked steady criticism. Among the vocal dissenters, the Union of Proximity Businesses (U2P) issued a statement on April 24th, lamenting "the absurd and often unjust situations that prevent certain proximity professionals (butchers, bakers, charcutiers, florists...), from having their employees work on May 1st, even though their activities are essential to the population." Those who disobey risk facing a hefty fine of 750 euros per employee working that day, doubling for minors.
The U2P is urging immediate action from the government, asking it to "forgive businesses that wish to have their employees work, provided they agree and are paid double." The Minister agrees that "texts should be adapted, to recognize that certain professions have an activity necessary for daily life." But while the adjustments are in progress, labour inspectors will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on bakeries come May 1st. Catherine Vautrin may join them... maybe. She has mentioned that "personally, I would be "eager to help a baker voluntarily if he needs it." Far from settling the controversy, the debate rages on.
Keeping up with Changes
As May 1st approaches, small businesses like bakeries in France must be aware of the upcoming VAT changes and the transition to electronic billing. Though there are no special considerations for bakeries, they must adapt to the general regulations affecting all small businesses in the country. Additionally, they should be prepared for potential disruptions on May 1st, given the tradition of strikes and protests in France.
- The Union of Proximity Businesses (U2P) has urged the government to show leniency towards small businesses, such as bakeries, on May 1st, suggesting that businesses should be allowed to have their employees work with their agreement and double pay, as a temporary measure.
- Catherine Vautrin, the Minister of Labour, has expressed her support for the U2P's proposal, stating that policies and legislation should be adapted to recognize the essential nature of certain professions like bakeries.
- However, labour inspectors will still be actively enforcing the law on May 1st, potentially imposing a fine of 750 euros per employee working that day, with the penalty doubling for minors.
- In light of this, it is crucial for bakeries to stay informed about the upcoming VAT changes and the transition to electronic billing, as well as the potential disruptions due to strikes and protests on May 1st, to ensure smooth operations amidst the ongoing debate surrounding the work rules on this day.
