Executive support now critical, says new chair of Hospitality Ulster

Executive support now critical, says new chair of Hospitality Ulster

The Executive must prioritise the hospitality sector and stop uncertainty around restrictions or risk hundreds of potential business failures, a leading Northern Ireland restaurateur has warned.

Tony O’Neill, the new Chair of Hospitality Ulster, said: “As I take up the role, I am calling on the Executive to be forward thinking and work with us to prioritise the revitalisation of the hospitality sector for the good of not just our sector, but for the Northern Ireland’s wider economic recovery.

“Our sector is a strong economic driver which adds real value in terms of jobs and trade, and it must be prioritised and supported through this difficult time.”

The well-known restaurateur, above left, who owns Coppi and Buba spoke out in the wake of a warning that venues may be closed during the Christmas period as a response to the rising Covid-19 numbers.

He added: “As we move into this new phase, and recovery and revitalisation are our focus, I am committed to leading from the front, ensuring we are listened to.

‘Real concerns’

“I would like to pay tribute to our outgoing Chair, Danny Coyles. A well-respected leader within our industry, Danny was committed to standing up for the hospitality sector during its toughest years in a generation. I know as he moves on, Danny will continue to be that strong voice for our sector.”

Stephen Magorrian, far right, the new Vice Chair of Hospitality Ulster added: “In the most testing period our industry has seen, I will work alongside Tony and Chief Executive, Colin Neill, to voice the very real concerns of business owners and staff as we work to revitalise the sector post-pandemic.”

“There is no denying we are still in crisis mode, and there is a mountain to climb as we still linger in a period of uncertainty. We will work with businesses to promote their interests and importantly what they need to survive, while also being that key industry voice advocating the economic benefits hospitality brings right across Northern Ireland.”

Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Hospitality Ulster said: “We are under no illusion that the next two years will be some of the most challenging our industry has ever seen. However, I know that Tony and Stephen are committed to being the steady hands needed to advocate for businesses right across Northern Ireland and make sure the concerns and needs of the sector are heard right at the top of government.

“I would also like to record my gratitude to Danny Coyles who was an outstanding Chair. Danny never wavered in his dedication to the hospitality sector and was relied upon to be the cool, rational head during the toughest of times. I have no doubt that we will call upon Danny in the years to come for further sound advice and guidance.”