Cairns RSL to back Kmart boycott
THE Cairns RSL has called for a boycott of Kmart if it is successful in opening on Anzac Day morning.
The retail giant has applied to trade in New South Wales before 1pm on Anzac Day, a move widely condemned.
Cairns RSL sub-branch president Peter Turner said he would support a boycott.
"I certainly would," he said. "It’s going against what Anzac Day stands for and is a grab for cash.
"Is one morning on a special day going to make a difference?"
Poll: Would you boycott Kmart if it proceeds with plans to trade on Anzac Day?
Mr Turner said the application would not be supported by the community.
"It’s our national day of remembrance. We’re against any trading on the morning of Anzac day," he said.
"Once one gets a leg in, then where will it stop?"
Queensland Premier Anna Bligh said Australians would not want to see any shops open on Anzac Day.
"Anzac Day is one of the very important days of the year for this country and I don’t think one day without shopping in the morning is going to hurt anybody," she said while at the opening of a new medical centre at North Cairns.
The proposal has also sparked national outrage.
Veterans’ Affairs Minister Alan Griffin said Anzac Day was an occasion for remembering those who fought and died for their country, not for shopping.
The Liberals agreed, as did the Small Retailers’ Association.
NSW Premier Kristina Keneally strongly hinted yesterday the trading request would be rejected.
"Customers who are used to being able to shop at any time would potentially be inconvenienced by our closure," the company said in its application. "They wouldn’t be able to obtain necessity items when they want."
The NSW Government, which last year reminded big retailers they faced fines of up to $11,000 for opening before 1pm on Anzac Day, showed no sign of relenting.
Ms Keneally said this showed Kmart was totally out of step with the rest of the community.
"All applications received so far for Anzac Day this year have been refused and Kmart will receive no special treatment," she said.
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