Statement from the Mayor of Markham: Retail Employees deserve a break too

Mayor Frank Scarpitti will not be supporting proposed exemptions by York Region to the Retail Holidays Business Act, which would allow all retail businesses to operate during statutory holidays, except for Christmas Day.

“They are making this decision without any input from the residents, businesses and retail employees,” says Mayor Frank Scarpitti, “I would like to see region-wide public consultations on this.”

Mayor Scarpitti also believes we need to understand the impact this will have on small business.

Markham City Council passed motion on November 14th voicing objection to the proposed changes.

“I am proud Markham Council voted against this proposal. It has been a tradition in the province of Ontario to have workers enjoy those days off,” says Mayor Scarpitti, “I think retail workers should be entitled to the same time off that the rest of us enjoy, there are only nine days a year when people can pause and enjoy time with family and friends.”

Markham’s position is clear. Statutory holidays are sacred events in the calendars of Canadians. Responding to public calls, the provincial government recently added an additional statutory holiday, Family Day, to give relief to Ontario workers.

Should all retail businesses open on statutory holidays? Mayor Scarpitti is encouraging retail employees to contact yourMember of Regional Council and voice your opinion on the proposed changes.

Media Contact:
Lama Nicolas, Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Mayor of Markham
lnicolas@markham.ca or 416-671-2890