Earlier this week, the Minister for the Economy, Christopher Skeete, tabled Bill 85, a package of some 30 regulatory relief measures. Among them is the easing of regulatory constraints for pharmacies and grocery stores.  

In effect, Bill 85 will allow these stores to have more than four employees on the floor after 9 p.m. on weekdays and after 8 p.m. on weekends. Bill 85 also opens the door to pilot projects on extended store opening hours for all retailers. 

In all, 16 economic sectors and 12 government departments are targeted by this bill, representing savings estimated at $20 million for the businesses concerned. 

Barely introduced, the bill is already sowing discontent among the population, particularly among convenience store owners. They fear losing their customers, who turn to them when grocery stores and pharmacies are closed. 

Minister Skeete was reassuring, however, pointing out that guidelines will be established for pilot projects on extended hours. He indicated that there were no plans to allow businesses to remain open 24 hours a day.   

According to the elected representative, Quebec is the only province where opening hours are imposed on retailers.

For the Conseil du patronat, the measure is welcome, as it would enable retailers to better meet the needs of their customers, notably by adjusting the number of employees according to their reality. 

At the other end of the spectrum, the Syndicat des Travailleurs et Travailleuses unis de l'alimentation et du commerce denounces the initiative. It argues that these changes would not allow young workers to maintain a balance between work and personal life, which could have a significant impact on their ability to stay in school.