Sunday Shopping

If an employee began working with a retail employer before the 17th day of March, 2007, that employee may refuse to work on any or all Sundays.

If an employee began working with a retail employer on the 17th day of March, 2007, up to and including the 15th day of December, 2010, that employee may refuse to work on any or all Sundays between Christmas Day and the Friday before Victoria Day.

If an employee began working with a retail employer after the 15th day of December, 2010, that employee does not have the right to refuse to work on Sunday.

The employee must give the employer verbal or written notice of the refusal.  This notice must be given to the employer at least seven days before any Sunday to which the refusal applies. 

Employees who are eligible to refuse to work on Sundays and who exercise this right can not be dismissed, suspended, laid off, penalized, disciplined or discriminated against by their employer.

Questions about the Retail Business Holidays Act may be directed to the Office of the Attorney General at (902) 368-5653.

This information is meant to serve as a guide only.  The reader is strongly advised to consult the Retail Business Holidays Act to view the legislation.  Where any difference exists between this information and the Act, the Act will be considered correct.
Published date: 
August 23, 2023
Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population

General Inquiries

Labour and Industrial Relations
2nd Floor Sherwood Business Centre
161 St. Peters Road, Suite 230
Charlottetown, PE C1A 5P7

Phone: 902-368-5550
Toll-free: 1-800-333-4362
Fax: 902-368-5476

labourrelations@gov.pe.ca