MS CARNELL (continuing):

Dear Chief Minister,

Thank you very much for your letter where you called our attention to the Holidays Amendment Bill 1999 that was tabled by Wayne Berry MLA.

Restaurant & Catering ACT believes that the declaration of a half day public holiday commencing at midday on 31 December 1999 will cause an undue hardship on not only restaurants and caterers but the entire retail sector.

Most restaurants and caterers have committed themselves to pricing for New Years Eve with substantial numbers having booked at already released prices. The impact on cost will be significant as labour increases to double time and a half.

Those employed in the tourism sector are aware of the demand to work on occasions such as New Year's Eve and Mother's Day. While we are concerned about our staff on the Millenium celebration, as an industry, we must participate with our staff ensuring that the community at large have restaurants in which to celebrate.

We appreciate your on going support.

Sincerely

ROBERT GOLDMAN

Chief Executive

Restaurant & Catering NSW

Coles Myer Ltd

The Hon. Kate Carnell, MLA

Chief Minister - A.C.T.

A.C.T. Legislative Assembly

London Circuit

CANBERRA CITY 2601

Additional Half-day Public Holiday - New Year's Eve