May 1st – the international workers’ day – is a public holiday in France and, by custom and tradition, a day of marches and demos. This year, however, unions have called for a ‘tsunami of protest’ over the government’s pension reforms. Here’s what you can expect.
Demos, strikes and flowers: What to expect in France on May 1st 2023
The Asian tiger mosquito – which can transmit a range of potentially fatal diseases – is now present in 73 of France’s 96 mainland départements, health experts have warned.
MAP: ‘Deadly’ tiger mosquitoes have now colonised 70% of France
It’s a common, often shouted, question from opposition politicians from all sides – where does our tax money go? France is a high-tax country, but you also get a lot of bang for your tax buck – using a new government tool, you can see exactly how the French government spends your taxes.
What are your French taxes spent on?
So, now you know. Moving on…
We round off this week’s must-reads with a couple of reader questions, starting with another tax one. The number of communes that can impose the taxe sur les logements vacants has risen in 2023 – here’s what the tax is and who has to pay it.
Reader question: Who has to pay France’s ‘vacant property’ tax?
And finally… Pupils in France do not go short of holidays – but what is the situation if you want to take your children out of school during the term-time?
Reader question: Can I take my children out of a French school during term time?
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