According to a CROP survey conducted for the Ordre des CRHA et CRIA du Québec (ORHRI) in May, close to half of Quebec workers (42%) believe the practice of taking long weekends instead of entire weeks of vacation is becoming more widespread in organizations.
Are vacations on their way out?
While long weekends seem to be taking over from real vacations, the survey also indicates that 26% of workers plan to take a break of a week or less over the summer. Among respondents aged 18 to 34, this percentage rises to 33%.
“These figures give some cause for concern. Vacations are necessary not only because they affect workers’ physical and mental health, but also because they have a major impact on productivity. It’s to employers’ advantage to instil a business culture that promotes healthy lifestyle habits. And real vacations are a part of this culture,” explained Florent Francoeur, CHRP, Ordre president and CEO.
Close to 50% of workers will take two to three weeks of vacation
However, the survey also shows that 48% of Quebec workers plan to take two to three weeks of vacation this summer, while one quarter (25%) will take four weeks or more.
The month of August is the most popular, with 51% of respondents reporting that they intend to take all or part of their vacation at this time. In contrast, 40% plan to take the last two weeks of July, the period that corresponds to the construction holidays in Quebec. Interestingly, these two weeks appear to be more popular with Francophones (44%) than with non-Francophones (21%).
Workers dream of six weeks vacation a year
In general, respondents consider six weeks to be the ideal annual vacation. More specifically, five and a half weeks is the goal of 18-to-34-year olds, versus eight weeks for those aged 55 and over.
“These figures explode the myths about the different generations. Younger workers are often more ambitious and put a stable and satisfying job ahead of long vacations. Baby boomers, on the other hand, often enjoy better working conditions, have been more spoiled and are close to retirement. It’s logical for them to want longer holidays,” added Francoeur.
To learn more…
Download the results of the CROP survey (in French only).
