Regulations on pub and nightclub closing times have always existed but they have never really been effective. In view of the high number of people who attend nightclubs at weekends – especially in the North – authorities have more or less closed their eyes on the offence. But things have changed recently and nightclub owners do not intend to just sit there…

The atmosphere in the North has changed since the authorities decided to be more severe. There are far less people in nightclubs that have to close at 2am on Fridays and 3am on Saturdays. Nightclub owners regret such measures “as people usually start to have fun at around 1am”. Hence they no longer want to drive so far to spend only a few hours in nightclubs.

Owners have even set up an association to strengthen their fight. Their objective is not to create a clash with the authorities but they want discussions with the authorities concerned to reach find a compromise on the issue. They held a press conference at the end of last week where they stresses that the implementation of the law not only puts their businesses at risk but could also jeopardise the tourist sector. Grand-Bay being a tourist area, tourists form a large part of their clientele. Hence, closing nightclubs so early might weigh heavy on the tourist industry. This is why they wish to meet the minister of Tourism and Leisure, Xavier-Luc Duval, and the minister of Regional administrations, James Burty David, to ask for a derogation that would allow them to remain open until 5am. Minister Duval has not given his agreement yet but he looks ready to discuss and find a middle ground with the operators…