Shoppers have been given three extra days to snap up Christmas purchases after Government lifted retail laws.

Retailers will now be able to open their stores in the three Sundays running up to Christmas, starting from this Sunday, December 8.

The exemption was announced in the House of Assembly this morning by Economic Development Minister Grant Gibbons, who said the move is expected to result in “increased demand and sales for our local retail stores”.

“The order makes provision for retail shops to be open on the three Sundays leading up to Christmas in December — specifically, Sunday, December 8, 15 and 22,” Dr Gibbons said.

“The order allows shops of all sizes to be open between the hours of 9am and 9pm on those days.

“We are committed to the revitalisation of Bermuda’s economy. As I stated recently when announcing the 12 days of Christmas promotion, the Bermuda retail sector is a vital component in our economic mix and provides some 3,000 jobs. The Ministry of Economic Development has received strong representation from the retail division of the Chamber of Commerce, on the need for stimulus sands extended shopping hours.

“As such, I note that we have tabled [will be tabling] the Public Holidays Amendment Act 2013. It is anticipated that the proposed amendment will result in increased demand and sales for our local retail stores. It is also anticipated that higher demand will result in new full and part time jobs in the sector.

“We wish our local retailers a busy and successful conclusion to 2013 and trust that these days of Sunday shopping will be helpful to them.”