HOSPITALITY Ulster has repeated its calls for a financial package for the north’s wet pubs if the Executive pushes back the reopening date for non-food premises, as expected.
The Executive had initially set an indicative date of August 10 for wet pubs. But on August 6, ministers agreed to postpone a decision and instead offered September 1 as a new indicative date.
But a recent rise in cases of Covid-19 has increased speculation that wet pubs will be forced to stay shut.
Licensed premises that serve food have been permitted to open since July 3.
Hospitality Ulster’s chief executive Colin Neill said many businesses are haemorrhaging around a thousand pounds per week without any money coming in or support from the government.
“A significant proportion of the hospitality industry is already open and the vast majority of them have taken every step possible to reduce the spread of the virus. Indeed, we are unaware of any spike caused by these premises- reinforcing the evidence that our industry, including out traditional pubs, can operate safely.”
The drinks body representative said the vast majority of traditional non-food pubs impacted by the decision are small family run businesses.
“These are not wealthy people, they do not have access to financial reserves, but they are hardworking and only want to be given that same opportunity as the rest of the industry.”
“If the NI Executive decides that our traditional non-food pubs must make a sacrifice for the good of wider community, then they must recognise that sacrifice and immediately step in with financial support until they are allowed to reopen and earn a living.
“Or an entire sector will be wiped out and good, decent hardworking people will lose everything.”
