Reacting to Thursday night’s news (20th January 2022) that NPHET is not opposed to the removal of most restrictions, VFI Chief Executive Padraig Cribben says: “After almost two years of lockdowns and closures our members are ready to fully open from Friday. There’s no need to wait any longer, all restrictions should be removed this weekend.

“NPHET has no objection to a full reopening of pubs so we need to go for it now. Northern Ireland is fully reopening over the coming days so it’s important we make the same decision. 

“While it will take considerable time for the hospitality sector to fully recover from the past two years, this weekend marks a new beginning for the trade.”