“While business recognises that controlling the virus is key to long-term economic recovery, there’s no doubt that these restrictions will put more jobs at serious risk. Businesses will welcome further clarity on the evidence base for this package of measures, what these additional restrictions are expected to achieve and how their impact will be measured.
“Right now our businesses are facing a myriad of unprecedented challenges: rebuilding from the first wave of COVID-19, dealing with the resurgence of the virus and managing the uncertainty over the EU/UK negotiations. While the announcement that there will be further financial support is welcome, it needs to be delivered without delay and targeted at acute areas of need.
“As our hospitality and tourism industry fights for survival, we urgently need to see a transparent strategy for living with COVID-19 through autumn and winter to protect both lives and livelihoods across Northern Ireland.”