Do French deputies really have 45 days off?

IN BRIEF Summer truce from the government since July 30. The National Assembly stopped sitting on July 10. Criticism on social media regarding a lack of responsiveness from deputies. Viral video of Sarah Saldmann mentioning holidays deemed excessive. Clarification: deputies do not have 45 days of holidays. During the parliamentary recess, they work in the field. Activities: meetings, visits, preparation of local files. Ministers invited to remain available during the summer. Since 2003, obligation to be reachable during crises. In 2023, circular reminding the instructions for summer availability.

The first controversial issue on social media, the question of the French deputies’ leave raises heated discussions. Recently, a viral video by lawyer and influencer Sarah Saldmann stirred the internet by claiming that deputies took 45 days of holidays. However, a closer examination of the situation reveals that this statement is misleading. Let’s clarify the reality of parliamentary activities during the summer.

The reality of parliamentary recess

It should be noted that the National Assembly does indeed stop sitting during the summer, but this does not necessarily mean that deputies are on holiday. This interruption, known as parliamentary recess, is actually an opportunity for elected officials to return to their constituency. Many deputies claim that this period is far from inactive and that they engage in meetings and field visits.

Deputies’ activities during the summer

During the summer, deputies focus on local activities such as meetings with mayors, associations, or field visits. This opportunity allows them to catch up on appointments that are difficult to honor during parliamentary sessions. Although the work pace may be less intense than during sessions, these elected officials continue to perform their duties away from the debates in the Assembly.

Social media posts from several parliamentarians testify to a maintained activity after July 10. Furthermore, the official website of the National Assembly shows that there are meetings that continue even during this period. This demonstrates that the parliamentary “recess” does not translate into extended holidays, but rather into another form of engagement.

Ministers during the summer

On the government side, there are no strict rules regarding the summer presence of ministers, but a tradition has developed over the years. After notable controversies, particularly in 2003, where a minister was criticized for being on holiday during a crisis, government members are now invited to remain available during the summer. In 2023, a circular even reiterated this requirement.

The Prime Minister has also indicated that he will remain mobilized throughout the summer, accompanied by several members of his government during trips. This reflects the importance of continuity in public affairs, even during the summer truce.

In summary

In conclusion, it is incorrect to say that French deputies enjoy 45 days of leave. The parliamentary recess is a time of intense activity serving their constituencies, just as ministers remain in contact and available during the summer. This topic deserves to be better understood, particularly through an exploration of the importance of fieldwork periods for representative democracy.