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A Newry and Armagh MLA has called on Ministers Diane Dodds and Conor Murphy to finalise a support package for the coach, bus and taxi industry which has been severely impacted by the Covid19 pandemic.
Speaking on the matter Justin McNulty explained, "This week I have again written to the Economy Minister Diane Dodds and Finance Minister Conor Murphy urging them to finalise a support package for the coach, bus and taxi industry who have been severely impacted by the Covid19 pandemic - The business for many impacted companies evaporated over night.
"For the coach and bus sector, everything from concerts, day trips, tourism tours and sports games all stopped abruptly. And as pubs, restaurants and the evening economy closed down so did the need for taxis. Whilst we have seen parts of the economy reopen, the areas which support his sector remains virtually shut.
"I fully appreciate the pandemic was an unprecedented event, but if there is not an urgent package of support finalised then many in the sector will go out of business. This is an extremely difficult time and many in the sector have been unable to avail of any of the other support packages, which were available to businesses and workers. This needs to be addressed urgently."
Mr McNulty concluded "I welcome the licensing support which was brought forward by the Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon with the support of her Executive colleagues. However, the Executive has tasked Ministers Dodds and Murphy with the responsibility of developing a package for these sectors. I welcome that commitment,but it needs to happen as a priority. Many in the industry cannot wait any longer as they are in imminent danger of going bust without urgent support."
