“Combined with the directive to suspend checks at ports, this decision creates an unsustainable level of uncertainty for businesses, at a time when they need support and stability,” NI Chamber President Paul Murnaghan and Chief Executive Ann McGregor, above, said in a statement. “It also has the potential to seriously damage local and international business confidence.

“The ramifications of this are far-reaching, impacting not just on business. People are facing significant challenges, with societal issues like fuel poverty affecting individuals and families already. Another political crisis exacerbates these problems and stalls progress for everyone.”

Gordon Milligan, Chair of the Institute of Directors Northern Ireland, added: “Companies thrive on stability which creates the environment necessary to grow and drive the economic prosperity we all strive to deliver for this region. Not only does this damage our reputation on the international stage, it comes at a time when we are all trying to navigate the impact of COVID-19 and the growing cost of living crisis.

“It is incumbent on political leaders to do what the business community always does – step up to the plate and work together to find a solution. We simply cannot continue to stumble from one political crisis to the next.”