Secretary of State hosts virtual roundtable with NI business leaders
The Secretary of State underlines the Government’s commitment to support local businesses through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic
A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Office said:
Today the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Brandon Lewis MP, hosted a virtual roundtable with business representatives in Northern Ireland to discuss the ongoing challenges of COVID-19 for their sectors and staff.
The Secretary of State underlined the Government’s commitment to doing whatever it takes to support businesses through this unprecedented challenge, working closely with the Northern Ireland Executive, to ensure they have the information and support needed to mitigate the impact of this outbreak.
The Secretary of State recognised the concerns of business leaders and their employees during this difficult and uncertain time and highlighted the support packages the UK Government has made available, including £330 billion worth of Government backed loans and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. He also noted that the Chancellor has provided an additional £1.1bn to the Northern Ireland Executive to support people and business in NI through COVID-19. This includes a £340m share of the UK emergency response fund to bolster support for the NHS and other vital services.
He thanked the businesses for their important feedback and acknowledged while there are undoubtedly difficulties ahead, the UK Government is doing everything possible to support Northern Ireland’s economy, businesses and the livelihoods of its people through these unprecedented times.
Notes to editors:
Representatives on the calls included:
- Confederation of British Industry (CBI)
- Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
- Institute of Directors (IOD)
- Ulster Farmers Union;
- Freight Transport Association NI
- Dairy UK
- Hospitality Ulster
- NI Meat Exporters Association (NIMEA)
- NI Retail Consortium
- Manufacturing NI
- Retail NI