Business rates holiday welcome but help must be extended to breweries as well as pubs – CAMRA NI

Responding to the extension of the business rates holiday for hospitality businesses announced by Finance Minister Conor Murphy MLA today, Chair of the Campaign for Real Ale in Northern Ireland Ruth Sloan said:

“CAMRA NI very much welcomes this announcement which will give pubs a much–needed break from having to pay business rates for a year, helping them weather the storm of coronavirus restrictions.

“Whilst this support with rates bills is necessary, pubs will still need further help. That’s why we want to see a second wave of grants to help them during continued periods of closure, as well as when they re-open and are operating at reduced trade due to social distancing measures.

“It is also vital that the Executive extends financial support to our local brewers and cider producers who haven’t been classed as a hospitality business when it comes to grants, but who have lost almost all their business because pubs and restaurants are shut.

“Without financial support we could risk many of our local, independent breweries and cider makers not being able to survive the COVID-19 crisis.”

About CAMRA:

CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, is a not-for-profit consumer group with over 192,000 members that has been operating since 1971. Our vision is to have quality real ale and thriving pubs in every community.

Media Contact:

CAMRA Press Office:
press@camra.org.uk
01727 337863

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