Staff shocked after being threatened if they did not shut up shop during protests in Lisburn city centre
Owners of a popular Lisburn eatery and takeaway have been left shaken after staff were threatened if they refused to close during protests held in the city centre in the aftermath of the brutal attack on a man in North Belfast.
A protest was held in Lisburn city centre on Tuesday evening June 9 with crowds gathering peacefully in the city centre.
On Wednesday June 10 rumours spread on social media that further protests would be held, with demands that local businesses close at 11am.
Whilst some businesses closed their doors early, the owners of Icon Fish and Chips in Market Square planned to stay open and donate 10% of their profits that day to a fund to support the victim of the Belfast attack. However, owners John and Lisa were shocked to be told by staff that a man had walked in and threatened to throw a brick through the window if they did not close for the day, forcing the business to shut the doors for the second time in a week.
"As the owners of one of our city centres eateries, we were shocked and angered when an individual approached our staff and informed them that if we did not close, we would "get a brick through the window”,” said John.
"We want to be absolutely clear: we are deeply disturbed by the horrific attack that took place on Monday night. "Like many people across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, we have been shocked by the severity of the violence inflicted upon a local man. Our thoughts remain firmly with the victim, his family, and everyone affected by this terrible incident.
"We understand the anger, frustration, and concern that many local people are feeling. However, threatening local businesses and intimidating local workers is not the answer. "We fail to see how threatening our staff – some of whom are teenagers – helps anyone.
"Large corporate chains may be able to absorb the cost of closing for a few days, but small independent businesses do not have that luxury. Every forced closure hurts local jobs, local families, and the local economy. “We had planned to donate 10% of our takings to support the victim of Monday night's attack. We still intend to honour that commitment, but unfortunately we had no option but to close after our staff were left fearful for their safety.
"We stand with the victim. We share the community's concern. We support the right to peaceful protest. But we will never support threats against local businesses or local workers.”
Cllr Gary Hynds commented: "Lisburn recently showed the perfect example of how people can peacefully protest and make their voices heard in a lawful and respectful manner. “The reported threats made towards a local city centre business are disgraceful and completely unacceptable.
"No business owner or member of staff should ever be left fearing for their safety while simply trying to earn a living. "I have reached out to the business in question and my door is always open to any business owner or resident who may need support. "People have every right to peacefully protest and voice genuine concerns around issues affecting their community. However, protests must remain peaceful, responsible and respectful towards the wider community.”