Cyprus parliament restricts Sunday shopping

Famagusta-Gazette

The House of Representatives has approved, by majority vote, legislation restricting opening hours for shops on Sundays.

The changes, which have been blasted by pro-business groups, means that shopping malls, department stores and supermarkets will be forbidden from opening on Sundays.

The move has been described as a backward step by supporters of Sunday shopping and could lead to the loss of hundreds of jobs in the retail sector.

The ban on Sunday opening will not apply to shops during the summer in tourists resorts such as Ayia Napa, Protaras, Polis Chrysochous, Latsi and Coral Bay near Paphos.

Labour Minister Zeta Emilianidou said the government has asked Attorney General Costas Clerides to review the bill passed, adding that this is problematic legally and in practice.

Shops have been allowed to open on Sundays for the past two years in an effort to boost income for businesses, enhance tourism and create more jobs in the retail business.

Source: http://famagusta-gazette.com/cyprus-parliament-restricts-sunday-shopping-p28175-69.htm