Dodds: time to get retail up and running again

All non-essential goods retailers in Northern Ireland can re-open from Friday 12 June, Economy Minister Diane Dodds has said.

Dodds announces Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme

The Minister confirmed the major step forward during a visit to Debenhams in Belfast city centre today.

Mrs Dodds said:

"I am very pleased to be able to confirm that all non-essential goods retailers in Northern Ireland can re-open from Friday 12 June, subject to them adhering to the necessary safety measures and no increase in the spread of the virus. This was considered at this morning’s Executive meeting and it was agreed that as long as retailers can adhere to the necessary safety measures, and there is no increase in the spread of the virus by Thursday, then these shops can re-open.

"The pandemic has had a devastating impact on the local economy. The recovery has already begun and it is time now for the pace to accelerate. The re-opening of all goods retail outlets will be a huge part of this.

"The safety of staff and customers is of course paramount. All retailers must be able to implement measures that minimise the risk to their staff and to the people who visit their stores. We will be co-existing with this virus for some time to come so it is vital that we continue to adhere to guidance to work and live safely. Debenhams is an excellent example of how retailers can make this work and adapt to this new normal."

The Minister added:

"The re-opening of our local shopping sector is a significant step forward in the Executive’s pathway to recovery. I and my Executive colleagues remain committed to moving forward in the recovery while at all times keeping the health, wellbeing and safety of people at the centre and being transparent in our approach.

“This is a major step forward today but there is more work to do and I will continue to work to progress the recovery."

Notes to editors: 

1. Information for businesses is available at: nibusinessinfo website
2. Follow us on Twitter @Economy_NI  
3. For media enquiries contact the Department for the Economy Press Office on pressoffice@economy-ni.gov.uk.
4. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.

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