"The Charlottetown Driving Park suffered extensive damage during Hurricane Juan forcing the cancellation of four race cards as well as evening racing due to damages to lighting," said Attorney General Ballem. "As the only racing track operation in PEI in the late fall and an important economic contributor to our province, it is important to work with the park to provide opportunities for the industry to continue throughout the fall."

The Prince Edward Island Harness Racing Industry Association, the Prince Edward Island Standardbred Horseowners Association and the Charlottetown Driving Park support the holding of harness races on these Sundays.

"Live race cards ensure continued work for the employees of the Charlottetown Driving Park at a time of year when there are few opportunities for extra work and we are pleased to be able to support the CDP in this way," says Attorney General Ballem.

The amendment sought through the Retail Business Holidays Act is specifically outlined in the Exemption Regulations of the act. The act and regulations provide the Lieutenant Governor in Council with authority to authorize business on a Sunday or a holiday that is otherwise prohibited under the act.