CBI NI responds to latest review of Covid-19 restrictions

Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said:

“Companies understand that our health system cannot function properly without a significant reduction in transmission.  Yet this latest announcement comes as a bitter blow for businesses across Northern Ireland who have invested heavily to keep their staff and customers safe.

“With the all-important festive trading period already upon us, businesses, particularly those in the hardest hit sectors such as hospitality, retail and tourism have been told continuously that they must endure short-term pain for long-term gain.  But yet once again they face this start-stop lockdown approach which is playing havoc with jobs and livelihoods.  

“Any support for this latest lockdown policy would require presentation of robust evidence to show that closing more businesses will reduce the level of transmission. Many companies may well need further support if they are to keep their heads above water.”