Business

Belfast shopworkers to protest against extension of Sunday trading hours

Shopworkers are to hold a protest on Friday in opposition to a proposed extension of Sunday trading hours
Shopworkers are to hold a protest on Friday in opposition to a proposed extension of Sunday trading hours Shopworkers are to hold a protest on Friday in opposition to a proposed extension of Sunday trading hours

SHOPWORKERS in Belfast are to hold a protest in opposition to the proposed extension of Sunday trading hours.

The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW) is leading a protest outside Belfast City Hall on Friday morning in protest to the proposals currently out for consultation from Belfast City Council.

USDAW responded to the consultation, which would allow all-day opening on 18 days a year, with a resounding ‘no’ after a member survey came out 6:1 against.

Deputy general secretary Paddy Lillis said the current trading arrangements were a "fair compromise".

“Our members in large stores remain absolutely opposed to extended Sunday trading. The number one reason for their opposition is the detrimental effect this would have on their family life. They cite real concerns about the additional pressure they would come under to work on Sundays if shops are open longer."

The protest will run from 8.30am until 9.30am, before the group gives evidence to the council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee.