Government is cutting holiday licensing fees for businesses and this afternoon donated $20,000 to the Chamber of Commerce to jump-start its Buy Bermuda Campaign.

Finance Minister Paula Cox made the announcement in response to concerns about the economy.

It is hoped the moved will serve as an incentive to businesses to remain open seven days a week.

Ms Cox said the fees – which range between $88 and $100 – would no longer need to be paid for Sundays or holidays until March 31.

She said that anyone with an annual license could be reimbursed.

She said: “From the very onset of these worrying financial times, this Government, through the Ministry of Finance, promised that it would do all that it can to ensure and preserve the strength and stability of Bermuda’s economy.

“We continue to uphold that promise. Yet, we also understand that words are not enough to demonstrate that commitment. We understand that the people of this country need tangible demonstrations of our promise.

“Action is required. So as we enter earnestly into the throes of this holiday season, and following consultation with the Chamber of Commerce, I am pleased to announce that the Ministry of Finance has decided to waive the fees for the single Holiday Trading Licenses which are issued under the Public Holidays Act 1947.

“The waiver period is from Sunday, November 30 until March 31, 2009.”

Ms Cox then handed a check to Kristi Grayston of the Chamber of Commerce to help with their Buy Bermuda Campaign.

For the full story see tomorrow’s The Royal Gazette.