French baker is fined... for working too hard

FROM this side of the Channel, it’s fair to say the French have never had a reputation for being the hardest workers.

And it seems the authorities are determined to keep the stereotype alive.

A baker in Lusigny-sur-Barse, 120 miles south-east of Paris, has been fined the equivalent of £2,600 for ‘working too hard’.

Cedric Vaivre’s decision to keep his business open seven days a week last summer broke strict employment laws in a country that still considers a day of rest compulsory. Those who rely on Mr Vaivre, 41, for their baguettes and croissants have condemned the punishment. They include Christian Branle, the town’s mayor, who said: ‘These kinds of laws are killing our businesses.

‘You have to show some common sense if you’re a small rural community in an area where there is not a lot of competition.’

He added that with an influx of tourists in summer, ‘we need to allow people to work when visitors need this service’.

More than 500 people have signed a petition supporting Mr Vaivre, who is refusing to pay the fine.

Under labour laws in the Aube department, where Lusigny is situated, small businesses can only work six days out of seven.

There are exceptions to the regulations, but Mr Vaivre’s Lake Bakery lost its right to ignore the law early last year.

Confirming the fine, an official at the Aube regional council said it was designed to protect workers from exploitation.

He added: ‘In this case, some may consider the fine is for working too hard, but in fact it’s all about looking after the business.’

France traditionally has a strict attitude towards work and still has a 35-hour week and long breaks for lunch.

Baking is one of the most strictly regulated industries. In 1995, bakers were guaranteed at least five weeks off a year, but town halls still regulate opening hours.