World Cup: no decision on pub hours yet, say Fife councillors
A decision on whether Fife Council will recognise the bank holiday granted to celebrate Scotland’s World Cup qualification is yet to be made.
Last week, the King announced a Scottish Bank Holiday will be held on June 15 to mark the nation’s return to the World Cup.
Itn came after First Minister John Swinney had asked for the day after Scotland’s debut game – they play Haiti in Boston at 2:00am UK time – to be a special holiday.
It will be up to local authorities as to whether to grant the bank holiday which would allow schools to close.
It had been reported that Fife would not be granting the day however Fife Council has now confirmed that “no formal decision” has been taken - and a report will come to its Cabinet Committee for discussion.
The uncertainty had resulted in the Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SBPA) calling on local authorities to support the World Cup bank holiday.
Paul Togneri, from the SBPA, said the event should be a “a unifying national moment” and stated that not backing the day off would “deny local pubs and hospitality venues the economic and community boost” that the celebration would bring.
He added: “We encourage undecided councils to do the right thing and honour the holiday for the benefit of fans, local economies, and the national spirit.”