Bars and restaurants with live music after 10 p.m. will now be required to have a bouncer for every 50 patrons.

The House of Assembly unanimously passed amendments to the Liquor Licence Act on May 14. The amendments gave Police the power to shut down bars for up to 24 hours if they believe trouble may break out.

They also required licensed premises to hire one security guard for every 50 patrons when there is live music or if a disc jockey provides entertainment past 10 p.m.

The news has come as a surprise to many in the hospitality industry.

Chamber of Commerce executive vice president Dianne Gordon said her members were not aware of the details in the legislation until after it had passed.

"We have written to the Attorney General expressing some of the concerns our members have raised," she said. "Some of our members have said they may no longer provide entertainment as a result of the law.

"We received word over the weekend that the Attorney General did receive our letter but we have not yet had a response."

Attorney General Kim Wilson is off Island until August 23. She told this newspaper she was unable to answer questions without the relevant legislation in front of her.

Local entertainer Tony Brannon said he thought the new amendments were heavy handed.

"The establishments that have trouble with security are the ones that have a late licence and are open late," he said. "I don't see why they don't raise it until midnight. Most pubs close then.

"I know my employer, at Frog and Onion Pub, has said she won't be able to hire me next season if it is not changed because she will also have to hire three bouncers as well."

Mr. Brannon plays music one night a week at the pub and restaurant in Dockyard. He said the crowd is mostly cruise ship passengers, who head back to the ship at midnight.

He added that he did not believe restaurants and hotels that provide guests with dinner and dancing or live music to accompany their meals should have to provide the same level of security as those who cater to late night revellers.

"Already there is so little local entertainment on the Island," he said. "This could really be the nail in the coffin for smaller establishments."