NI’s pubs & breweries need light at the end of the tunnel as post-Christmas lockdown announced

Responding to the announcement of a six-week lockdown starting on 28th December Chair of CAMRA NI Ruth Sloan said:

“Pubs and breweries who have already been decimated by months of restrictions and closures were looking for some light at the end of the tunnel have only been met with more devastating news about the new year.

“The Executive must urgently increase its financial support packages to make sure that pubs can survive this new year lockdown without risking scores of businesses going bust. Our local breweries and cider producers who can’t get their products into pubs and restaurants will also need financial compensation and support too.

“When planning for the next steps after the lockdown, ministers must recognise that local pubs are a force for good, bringing communities together and playing a key role in tackling loneliness and social isolation – as well as for jobs and the economy. Allowing a limited number of people to socialise safely in COVID-secure pubs is vital not just for businesses – but also for our communities and to people’s mental wellbeing.”