SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan
Said the Foyle MLA: “The liberalisation of the North’s antiquated licensing laws is long overdue.
“This legislative change will provide vital support for the hospitality industry, which is needed now more than ever, as the industry recovers from COVID-19.”
“It is welcome that the Minister has committed to tackling addiction, alcohol misuse and promoting responsibility consumption.
“As Hospitality Ulster has previously outlined, the local hospitality industry supports thousands of jobs, contributes £1.2bn every year to our economy and is a key cornerstone of our growing tourism industry.
“Evidently, modernising our licensing laws is crucial to the future economic growth of the North.
“Given the huge and lasting impact of COVID-19 on our tourism and hospitality sector, this news will be a welcome boost for them, in the context of a very difficult few months.
“Particularly wet pubs who do not serve food, who have been left behind as easements begin.
“Publicans and the public will be particularly pleased at proposals to remove the antiquated and draconian restrictions on Easter opening.
“I welcome the confirmation announced from the Minister.
“It is crucial that this legislation is brought swiftly, so we do not have another Easter period with archaic licensing laws.
“We cannot miss this opportunity to give our hospitality industry and tourism sectors a much needed boost,” added Mr Durkan.
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