A Dictionary of Dutchness

Gehaktdag

Gehaktdag or mince day is the name given in political circles to the third Wednesday in May when ministers present their departments ’ annual reports, summing up their successes and failures. The somewhat strange label comes from the idea that if ministers have not done well, the opposition and the press will make mincemeat of them. Ministers always complain that the day, formally known as verantwoordingsdag (responsibility day) is not taken seriously.