NI lockdown extension ‘devastating’ say business groups

That is according to a number of organisations representing business in Northern Ireland – the Belfast and Londonderry Chambers of Commerce along with retail and hospitality industry groups – following news that lockdown will stay in place at least until April 1 despite some minor relaxations.

One of the rules that will be relaxed, from March 8, will be the ban on ‘click-and-collect’ services for retailers formerly deemed non-essential.

From that date onwards, shops that sell clothes, shoes, baby equipment or electrical goods will be allowed to operate a ‘contactless’ collection service.

Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts said that move would provide “a much-needed lifeline for struggling independent retailers”.

Economy Minister Diane Dodds also welcomed the move, saying: “This is a cautious but welcome step. Contactless click-and-collect services provide a measure of protection to our smaller independent businesses while at the same time easing footfall within larger retail outlets.”

In a joint statement, the chief executives of Hospitality Ulster (Colin Neill), Belfast Chamber (Simon Hamilton), Londonderry Chamber of Commerce (Paul Clancy) and Retail NI (Mr Roberts) said: “We are all encouraged by the declining number of Covid-19 cases and the effective roll-out of the vaccination programme across Northern Ireland. However, many of our members will be devastated to hear that the current lockdown, which began on Boxing Day, has been extended until Easter.”

The business representatives continued: “Whilst we recognise the positive steps in the right direction that a return to school for some pupils and permitting click-and-collect services for some retailers represents, work on the safe reopening of the economy needs to commence now and we welcome the commitment laid out to bring forward a framework for recovery at the start of March.

“The impact of this crisis and repeated lockdowns on many aspects of our society will be severe and longstanding and no more so than the effect on jobs and the economy.”

The joint statement added: “The scale of work that needs to be done to aid economic recovery is immense and should not be underestimated. We make an open offer to the Executive on behalf of the thousands of businesses we represent – work with us, and let’s together develop this reopening and recovery plan that we can implement as soon as the time is right.”

CBI Northern Ireland director Angela McGowan said: “While the Executive’s moves on click-and-collect for some retailers are helpful, businesses will require more clarity and transparency on likely sequencing for lifting restrictions so they can prepare.”