Paul Clancy, CEO, Derry Chamber
Commenting after the Executive’s announcement of a strict six-week lockdown from Boxing Day, Londonderry Chamber Chief Executive Paul Clancy said:
“Another strict lockdown, akin to what we experienced in March, is yet another bitter blow to our local businesses. Again, traders are forced to shut their doors to customers and at what is traditionally the toughest trading period of the year.
“After nearly a year of this crisis, it is regrettable that the Executive does not seem to have any other means to deal with the pandemic other than shutting down the economy over and over.
“Business owners are adaptable and flexible by their nature and will comply with these latest set of restrictions but the Executive must ensure that financial support reaches them as quickly as possible. Any further delays will result in lost jobs and permanently closed businesses.
“While we do not disagree with the urgent need for interventions to support our hospitals and healthcare workers which are under severe strain, it can’t be the case that small businesses bear the brunt of the restrictions every time. We all have our part to play in driving cases of the virus back down and I would encourage everyone to continue social distancing, washing their hands regularly, and wearing a mask where necessary.
“The Executive needs to develop, as a matter of priority, a more strategic and sustainable way to deal with the rise in cases, a strategy which will protect jobs and livelihoods alongside lives and the health service.”