The Police Service of Northern Ireland convened an engagement meeting this morning with key stakeholders from the local business community within Belfast, to offer reassurance following the recent disorder which occurred across Northern Ireland.
Pictured with Belfast Area Commander Chief Superintendent Amanda Ford are Colin Neill, Hospitality Ulster, Tasha Thompson, Belfast Chamber, Ian Campbell, Translink, Claire Guinness, Belfast Chamber of Commerce, Chris McCracken, Managing Director of Linen Quarter Business Improvement District, John Walsh, Chief Executive Belfast City Council, Damian Corr, Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District, Roger Pollen, Federation of Small Businesses, Glyn Roberts, Retail NI, Martina Connolly, Chief Executive, Belfast One Business Improvement District, Mary Jo McCanny, Chris Agnew, Safer Business Network, and Allister Bell, both Visit Belfast
Various agencies attended the meeting held at Belfast City Hall, facilitated by Belfast City Council on Friday 12th June, in which Belfast Area Commander Chief Superintendent Amanda Ford provided an overview of the operational response following the disorder. Chief Superintendent Ford also briefed relevant partners around the proactive measures being taken to support businesses, workers, residents and visitors to the city.
Chief Superintendent Amanda Ford said: “This was an extremely positive meeting which allowed members of the business community to raise issues and concerns around the negative impact the disorder has caused. As we are well aware, this is already an extremely challenging financial environment for business owners to operate and the recent disorder has been another difficult factor to face.
“It is clear from today’s meeting that Belfast City Centre is very much open for business, which includes normal public transport and late night services to support the wider city events this weekend.
“As part of our response to the disorder, there will be an increased policing presence across the city centre to provide reassurance and support for everyone who lives, works, visits and invests here.
“The work of all of the partner agencies in dealing with the disorder should be welcomed by everyone.
“Belfast has built a reputation as a vibrant, welcoming and resilient city. The overwhelming majority of businesses are continuing to operate as normal, and we encourage people to continue supporting the city centre by shopping, dining, attending events and enjoying everything Belfast has to offer.
“Our shared focus is on moving forward with confidence and ensuring that Belfast continues to grow and prosper for everyone who works, lives in and visits the city.”