Trading on the agenda

STATE Tourism and Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones is keeping her promise to open up discussion on modifying trading hours during the event.

Ms Jones, as revealed in the Bulletin recently, said she was open to discussion with stakeholders about Games trading hours both for retail and licensing in entertainment precincts.

She confirmed she is meeting Mayor Tom Tate today “about an extension to trading hours during the Commonwealth Games”.

Bar owners have been calling for 3am last drinks to be temporarily extended to 5am during the Games fortnight in April, saying many visitors will be shocked at a 3am cut-off.

“I promised I would consult with Gold Coasters about this proposal and that’s what I’m doing this week,” Ms Jones said. “We want to help local businesses capitalise on the Commonwealth Games.”