Young people not of legal drinking age were allowed to stay in bars after the entertainment started for the first time over the Labour Day weekend.

The rules were confusing for tourists, says Rob Henderson, minister responsible for the liquor commission. (CBC)

Under previous regulations, children had to leave once the music started. Now they can stay if they are accompanied by an adult. Rob Henderson, the minister responsible for the liquor commission, said the rules were confusing for tourists.

"Some of the operators have been coming to us and saying that it's very awkward when they have visitors in from other provinces and they're told that they have to vacate the premises," said Henderson.

The new rules came into effect Saturday. Lounges can apply for a permit to allow people under the age of 19 to stay in their establishment while entertainment is being offered.

Barb Hunter, owner of the Deckhouse Pub in Summerside, said it is a welcome change.

"The majority of our customers are tourists," said Hunnter.

"They have a family and they want a seat, and we have to tell them they can't, it's really hard. And they get frustrated."

The change is not only welcome for customers and bar owners. Chris Roumbanis, lead singer for the Island band Got Blues, had been lobbying government to make the change.

"We do a matinee at the Globe in the afternoon and so it's very frustrating for a lot of families," said Roumbanis.

"There were a lot of families who had young teenagers that wanted to come up and play, and they weren't allowed in either."

Henderson said there will still be a curfew for children, but the curfew is flexible depending on the type of entertainment being offered.

For mobile device users: Is it a good idea to allow young people in bars while entertainment is available?