Chambers of Commerce call on Executive for reopening dates ‘for hope’

Saturday’s News Letter reported Department of Health claims that the economy will have to stay closed for the time being if schools are to reopen have caused a sharp reaction from the business sector.

The joint statement was signed by Simon Hamilton, Chief Executive of Belfast Chamber, Karen Yates, Chief Executive of Causeway Chamber, Paul Clancy, Chief Executive of Derry Chamber and Colm Shannon, Chief Executive of Newry Chamber said: “Businesses recognise that the Executive’s staged plan provides hope that our economy might reopen but without indicative dates our businesses can’t plan,” they said. The vaccine roll out has been a real game changer and the Executive must be congratulated on the rapid role out of this impressive programme.”

“Our members are at the heart of our communities employing thousands of people in the retail and hospitality sectors. Most of our businesses have seen little trade in the past year and there is a real need for the Executive to give them hope and confidence for the future.”

“Businesses want this to be the last lockdown and do not want to reopen before it is safe to do so. Our members understand the need for the Executive to be cautious, but we believe they can be clearer on their plans for reopening. Indicative dates would give businesses the opportunity to plan for a time when they might reopen. This would help with decisions around when to restock, bring staff back into the business and accept bookings in the hospitality sector.”

They said that throughout the crisis created by COVID-19, businesses have stepped forward and played their part.

“We appreciate the support the Executive has provided but businesses have also invested heavily in measures to protect their staff and customers. They have stretched themselves by using their own reserves to stay in business. One year on, it is getting increasingly difficult, and they call on the Executive to give them the clarity they need so they can plan for the future.”

Private DoH advice to the Executive - published by the BBC and verified by the News Letter last week - said “the decision to prioritise and accelerate face-to-face learning must be supported by the retention of other existing restrictions at least until after the Easter holidays”.

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