Reval 26 Reprieve

We are delighted for our hospitality businesses on hearing the news that Minister O’Dowd has put the brakes on the process.

It does, however, remain worrying that it got this far. On a very basic human level, it is difficult to understand how LPS did not appreciate that increases of nearly 300% in some cases would have unsustainable consequences for both business and community.

We fear the argument is not yet won, but the pause is certainly welcome. Well played Hospitality Ulster, with notable support from your brilliant members.

Cathedral Quarter stands shoulder to shoulder with you and will remain so until a fair compromise is reached.

Credit is due to Colin Neill, and indeed to the Minister, for the action taken yesterday - that will not have been easy.