asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the hardship caused to small retailers carrying on a family business in rural towns through the operations of an early closing order under the Shops (Hours of Trading) Act, 1938; and if he will consider introducing suitable amendments to relieve this hardship, which has burdened the small retailers throughout the country for about 30 years.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shops (Hours of Trading) Act.
23.
I am aware that dissatisfaction has been expressed from different points of view regarding the operation of the Shops (Hours of Trading) Act, 1938. I am arranging to have the Act re-examined in the light of present day conditions and I will see to it that the interests of all parties, including the public, are fully considered before I take any steps to seek an amendment of the Act, if I should consider this desirable.
Introduce the five-day week for shops. I have no doubt that is what Deputy Molloy has in mind.