Warning ‘many in hospitality sector may not survive’ second lockdown

Willard D Barber, manager of McConville’s Bar in Portadown, warned many in the hospitality sector ‘may not survive this second lockdown’.

Mr Barber was commenting as news of new restrictions were announced today, including that pubs and restaurants will close for four weeks, with the exception of takeaways and deliveries, while schools will shut for two weeks in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Retail outlets are to remain open but close contact services such as hairdressers and beauticians are to close for four weeks.

Mr Barber, who also owns a hair salon in Markethill, said businesses had invested thousands during the previous lockdown in order to be safe when they reopened.

“I have 40 members of staff and none of them have contracted COVID-19 since we reopened. There has not been a case traced to our pub or the salon,” he said.

“Where are the numbers, the evidence that this surge in cases can be traced back to the hospitality sector?” he asked.

“We are going to see a lot of hospitality businesses not returning from the second Lockdown. They are already running at a loss and just keeping their heads above water.

“We are doing that so our staff have jobs. We are making zero profit,” said Mr Barber who said this second lockdown, in the run-up to Christmas, will have a ‘devastating impact’.

“Every hospitality business relies on Christmas every year - work parties etc,” he said.

He also complained about the lack of detailed information from the NI Executive after this morning’s announcement.

“There is no information from the Executive. How are we going to pay staff and how are they going to pay their bills.

“My concern is for the mental health of staff,” he said.

Adrian Farrell, President of Portadown Chamber of Commerce said he was ‘extremely concerned’ about the impact of this second lockdown on the high street. “The closure of the hospitality sector will have an impact on other services also, for example taxis. The hospitality sector is inextricably linked to the high street and it will mean less footfall.”

Mr Farrell called for an urgent financial package. “Something needs to be done to keep the hospitality sector on life support during this. It has to be significant, not just a sticking plaster.”

He added that retailers have been taking their responsibilities throughout the crisis extremely seriously and should be commended.

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