In contrast if your point is saying people who want to take off holidays that apply to their own religion, are actually contributing to the downturn of the economy = whilst saying that you don't mind getting paid to take christmas and easter, that seems a bit fuzzy?
I think unpaid time off is a good compromise. Personally, if I had a business, I would be happy with that solution.
I'm not against the proposition, I just don't think it should be forced upon people under the name of PC. Ironically, freedom is being eroded by political correctness, even though it gives some freedom to others. That is what I disagree with, not an employer giving someone time off for their religious beliefs.
As for Christmas and Easter, well that has always been the case, and employers have had it planned into their year for as long as can be remembered. The extra unexpected stuff is what puts the pressure on.
There will always be "good" employers and "bad" ones. I use inverted commas because it's all relative. I have what I consider to be a good employer. Friends of mine say they have good employers too, but their terms and conditions, not to mention pension schemes, are nowhere near as good as mine. I would probably view their employers as bad, simply due to my current experience.
All the best,
TE.