In an effort to save energy, the winter break at Hungarian schools will be longer than usual this year, lasting from Dec. 22 to Jan. 8.
Gergely Gulyás, Head of the Prime Minister's Office, told a government press briefing that while the winter holidays for schools would be longer, the autumn break would be cut. Government offices will also stay closed in this period for the same reason, Gulyás said, adding that employees in the sector would be required to take their paid holidays off for those days. The cabinet also discussed the effect of rising energy prices on local councils, Gulyás said, noting that some local councils are seeing a 10-20-fold increase in their gas bills. The government has therefore tasked Fidesz MP and ministerial commissioner György Balla to coordinate talks with local councils together with the finance, the interior, and the technology and industry ministries on finding a solution to help local governments survive the coming year, Gulyás said. Most local councils will be able to afford their energy bills this year because of their long-term contracts, but it is certain that they will have to cut costs and will need government support next year, he said. The government will hold separate talks with the local councils that need additional help, he added.
Photo credit: MTI