CBI NI responds to latest review of covid restrictions

Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said:

“Getting the green light to proceed to the next step of reopening will be of real relief for Northern Ireland’s hardest hit firms. Having weathered the chilling economic effects of the pandemic, as well as the last few weeks of wind and rain, they will be buoyed by the improving outlook as we move into summer.

“News of quarantine free international travel for a limited number of routes will also be welcome, but it remains a cautious first step. Economic recovery can’t happen without firms being able to reach key markets, so we must look to build on this in the weeks ahead.

“The Executive can inject further momentum into the recovery by providing companies with greater clarity on outstanding issues, including social distancing and the future of workplace testing. Cooperation across the UK and with the Common Travel Area on these important factors will be key.

“Government support has provided a lifeline during an unparalleled fourteen months. But with firms still low on cash and demand, additional help from the Executive may be needed to help cushion firms during this precarious restart phase, where jobs and livelihoods should be the priority.”