A dozen Easter bunnies have marched through Martin Place today to raise awareness of plans for extended retail trading hours on special days such as Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Anzac Day (half day).

This Easter may be the last one that retail and warehouse workers can spend with family and friends if big business and government get their way, according to Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ NSW Branch Assistant Secretary, Bernie Smith, said today.

“Good Friday and Easter Sunday are important days for spending time with loved ones and participating in community life,” Mr Smith said.

“Many local retail and warehouse workers tell me Easter and Christmas are the only special days they can spend two days a row in with their family.

“This precious time is at risk from an attempt to extend retail trading hours, which if successful would see this Easter as the last many workers will have the choice to enjoy with the people most close to them.

“Retail outlets are already open for trade 360.5 days each year and the economic case has not been made for opening trade on Good Friday, Boxing Day or any other protected day.

“The case for business is questionable but the cost to families is real.

“Retail and warehouse workers should have the same opportunity as others to enjoy and celebrate significant cultural and religious days and not be the person who is missing from the photos of important get-togethers with family and friends,” Mr Smith said.