Sask. bars, restaurants can apply to open early to accommodate Olympics viewers

Bars in Saskatchewan can ask the provincial government for permission to open early in order to serve viewers of the Winter Olympics, which are underway in Italy.

The Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority said it will consider requests from existing alcohol permit holders to allow for the sale of booze as early as 5 a.m. A number of significant Olympic events, including hockey games, are scheduled to begin in the early morning hours due to the seven-hour time difference.

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“Requests will be considered by SLGA on a case-by-case basis, taking into account compliance history of the permittee,” the liquor authority noted in a statement.

“All regular rules related to the permit remain in effect, including the requirement for food service at the establishment.”

Warren Kaeding, the minister responsible for SLGA, said Saskatchewan is full of Olympics fans who want to come together and support Canadian athletes during the games.

“With the time difference between Italy and Saskatchewan, some events will start early in the morning,” Kaeding said in a statement.

“SLGA will consider requests from businesses to open early to accommodate fans.”

Bars and restaurants can contact SLGA’s liquor licensing branch to request extending their hours.