Flag Protests Could Cost 300 Jobs

As many as 300 jobs could be lost across Belfast by the end of this week as a result of ongoing flag protests, according to Pubs of Ulster.

Pubs in Belfast are described by the industry body as being at "breaking point".

The group said trade in pubs, restaurants and hotels has dropped by an average of 30%, and in some cases by as much as 55%, over recent weeks.

This indicates the industry is currently suffering a dramatic drop in turnover, says Pubs of Ulster.

One publican has reported a loss of £95,000 before Christmas and £60,000 after the Christmas period.

Some pubs have already let staff go and more job losses are expected to follow.

Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Pubs of Ulster, said: "We are not taking a view on the flag issue itself but we have to address the effect on business, particularly in terms of people’s livelihoods.

"The nature of our business makes us very dependent on predictable cash flows and the truth is we have been very badly affected for a sustained period of time. We have now reached crisis point and this week jobs have been lost. Looking ahead, we are predicting that 200-300 casual and on-call jobs across the city centre will be lost before the end of the week.

"The industry is fighting for survival and we need action now," Mr Neil added.

"We are engaging with all of the political parties in a bid to find a way forward, and will continue to do so until we find a solution. In the meantime, we want to remind people that the city is very much open for business and we would encourage everyone to go out and support their local pubs and restaurants."

(IT)