Owners of 61 bars,
nightclubs, restaurants and shops that had their doors sealed by city officials
for working and serving alcohol after hours held a press conference yesterday
to protest against the action. They are also members of the Council of
Nightclubs and the Union to Support City Culture.

The Mayor closed
these establishments down after they had repeatedly broken the rules, paying
fines every time the police caught them but then continuing with their old
ways. The owners believe closure of bars will not affect drinking, but could
even increase it. It has also put many out of a job. The mass closure also goes
against the city administrations’ promise to support business.

The city
administration has explained that action was taken against the 61only because
they repeatedly flouted regulations, while places that observed regular hours have
not been touched. These 61 had been selling alcohol behind closed doors all night
for the past eight years. However, their licenses can be restored if they promise
not to violate laws again.

The bar and
nightclub owners have suggested that they should be allowed to be open even after
midnight, but not sell alcohol.