VETERANS’ groups have lashed out at the Launceston Harvest Market for its decision to run on Anzac Day, with the RSL saying it has shown ‘‘total disrespect’’.
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Anzac Day this year falls on a Saturday and, while supermarkets can’t open until midday, markets are permitted to operate.
Hobart’s Salamanca Market has been moved to Sunday, April 26.
RSL state president Robert Dick said the Harvest Market should reconsider its decision.
‘‘They shouldn’t be running it until after 12 [midday] as a sign of a respect for those people who fought and died for the country so they can hold such a market,’’ Mr Dick said.
‘‘I think they should start looking at their own morals rather than jumping in to try and make a good dollar,’’ he said.
‘‘It’s very, very disappointing and I think they are showing total disrespect to all those who fought and died for their country,’’ he said.
In a letter to Legacy, the market’s president Kim Seagram said the organisers did consider the conflict with Anzac Day, but would operate from 8.30am.
Ms Seagram said it was a community organisation and had not breached trade restrictions.
‘‘We also felt it gave people somewhere to go after the services to reflect as part of the community,’’ the letter said.
‘‘The Dawn Service gives people the opportunity for people like myself and many of our producers to arrive early and acknowledge the service and sacrifice our defence forces have made to ensure we have a safe and free society.’’
Launceston Legacy president Mac Kidd said this Anzac Day was ‘‘extra special’’ due to it being the centenary.
‘‘Launceston Legacy is extremely disappointed that they chose to do that when practically every Australian remembers the fallen and those who have served,’’ Mr Kidd said.