LESS IS MORE

EASTER Monday marked the launch of Valencia’s trial of the four day working week. Taking place for a month, the city council will analyse the effects of a 32-hour week on health and social well-being of its staff.

It will also closely study the effects on the climate and economy.

The concept of the four day working week has been touted as a feasible way to increase employee satisfaction and improve productivity.

It would allow companies to slash a day off of the schedule while not reducing pay.

Valencia’s trial does not actually provide employees with extra days off, instead it takes advantage of existing national and regional holidays: April 10, Easter Monday; on Monday, April 17, San Vicente Ferrer; on Monday, April 24 (the festivity of San Vicente Martir was moved from January 22) and on Monday, May 1, the national holiday.