NI Hotels Federation in plea to new PM for support and stability

The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation has written to the new Prime Minister Liz Truss calling for urgent help for the hospitality sector as it stares into an uncertain future.

Federation President Stephen Meldrum cited VAT, soaring energy bills and restrictive immigration policies as among the biggest hurdles facing the sector and Stephen also expressed his hope that the Stormont Executive could soon get back to doing business.

He said: “The election of Liz Truss as Leader of the Conservative Party, and her appointment as Prime Minister, brings an interesting and uncertain summer to an end. The Federation welcomes the political stability and hopes that she will be in a position to resolve the local political stalemate.

“The hotel and wider tourism sector were well supported through the COVID-19 pandemic but we are now facing an uncertain future. Business has held up well over the summer months with staycations, return of international travel and a reawakening of business travel.

“However, local political turmoil places Northern Ireland in a difficult position. Global forces beyond the control of any individual business or sector are affecting us all and while it is imperative that the Executive is restored as soon as possible, the issues facing hotels will require intervention at a national level. The Federation welcomes the political stability and hopes that she will be in a position to resolve the local political stalemate.

“The NIHF is keen to see a VAT reduction for the sector. A return to the 5% rate of 2021 would help hotels and the wider sector cope with the current rising cost base and help the industry return to 2019 levels of business.

“The lack of people available to take up vacancies has been an issue for the entire business community and a simplified and expedient Immigration process would be of benefit to business UK wide.

“The issue of energy costs has been amplified over the last number of weeks and as winter approaches the issue can only be exacerbated.  Urgent policies to address the energy crisis appear to be high up the agenda and, if the current rhetoric is to be believed, will be addressed as a priority.

“It is important that the needs of local business are taken into account, and we have written to the Prime Minister today to highlight our concerns and seek support. Hotels have invested extensively in the local economy and are keen to capitalise on this investment. There are secure, long-term and progressive roles on offer in the industry and with support on key issues like VAT, immigration and energy, the industry can focus on the future.”