The most popular idea that won't be in Wednesday's throne speech? A four day work week

Authored by nationalpost.com and submitted by CedevitaMasterRace

It’s a wildly popular idea that enjoys bipartisan support across Canada. It might be the only policy supported by both the right-leaning Fraser Institute and former Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders.

The four-day work week is enjoying a moment in the sun as the COVID-19 pandemic forces people around the world to consider how they work and spend leisure time. But don’t expect to see it in Wednesday’s Speech from the Throne.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or The most popular idea that won't be in Wednesday's throne speech? A four day work week Back to video

Asked about the idea in June, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau didn’t exactly give it an enthusiastic endorsement.

“I think there are a lot of people thinking creatively about what the post-COVID world could look like. And I look forward to hearing a wide range of suggestions,” said Trudeau said. “But right now, we’re very much focused on getting through this particular crisis.”

The Fraser Institute says with increased productivity, Canadians could easily maintain or increase their quality of life while working fewer days.

Diogenes_Fart_Box on September 23rd, 2020 at 16:16 UTC »

I wish life was more about seeking happiness, and doing something you want to and less about spending almost every waking hour working for someone else, and still not making enough to really prosper without living a very bland and spartan lifestyle.

Wouldn't that be great? I like working- even for someone else! But damn. Sometimes I feel like I'm gonna look back on my life and wished I'd been able to spend more time with those I love, rather than working at the grind.

YEGLuis on September 23rd, 2020 at 13:44 UTC »

I work 4 day work weeks and I will leave my job if they take it away. I care more about work life balance more than wages. Honestly working 4 day weeks has showed me that alot of people fill work time with useless meetings and try to look busy or micromanage people into misery when at the end of the day it's about output and trust. Quarantine has helped show leadership that you can let your workers work remotely with minimal supervision and flexible hours. I have seen my team's data that they have been 150% more productive and they're more happier.

wallace-longshanks on September 23rd, 2020 at 13:15 UTC »

I already work a 4 day week and its the best part of my job (unionized plumber). I work 4 9 hour days for a 36 hour week. We actually went on strike last year to keep our 4 day week as the contractors were pushing for 5 days. The strike last 2 and a half days. I would never give up my 4 day week. (Any overtime after 36 hours is paid double time so working some fridays is very worth it)