The SDLP has launched a campaign to save pubs, hotels and other hospitality businesses following changes to business rates.
It follows the revaluation of non-domestic properties, which has seen some rates bills for local businesses rise dramatically.
The SDLP is bringing forward a public petition calling on the Finance Minister John O’Dowd to urgently intervene and reverse aspects of the policy which threaten the future of businesses and jobs.
SDLP Leader of the Opposition Matthew O’Toole MLA said:
“This destructive policy has the potential to close local businesses, cost people their jobs and rip the fabric out of communities across the North. Pubs and hospitality venues are at the heart of life in our villages, towns and cities, they are more than just businesses and we cannot stand by and watch them go to the wall.
“This revaluation comes after years of pressure on the hospitality sector, particularly following Covid. Rising costs, changing habits and reduced margins have already forced many businesses to make the heartbreaking decision to close their doors. When a pub closes, jobs are lost, local investment disappears and communities are left poorer and more isolated as a result.
“Of course businesses should pay their fair share through rates, but no reasonable person could accept bills doubling or increasing even further overnight. Very few pubs or hospitality businesses could absorb increases of this scale without meaningful support.
“The SDLP will be engaging directly with the pub, hotel and hospitality sector and we are urging the Finance Minister John O’Dowd to do the same. If he fails to act, we will see more businesses closing in the weeks and months ahead, with a real and damaging impact on people’s lives and livelihoods. The SDLP Opposition is determined not to let that happen and we will work with businesses to secure the change needed.”
ENDS
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