Statement by the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council on the reopening of non-essential retail for face to face business

30th April 2021

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Chair in Omagh (2)

The Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Diana Armstrong, is encouraging people to keep safe while supporting local as non-essential retail, reopened for face-to-face business on 30 April 2021.

Speaking about the reopening Councillor Armstrong said;

“All businesses including retail, close contact, hospitality and leisure have faced significant challenges over the past year as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic and it is important that we continue to support them as we embark on the next phase of recovery and revitalisation.

Our local businesses have implemented many measures to ensure that their premises are Covid safe for both customers and staff and I hope this provides you with reassurance to return to face to face shopping. Almost 1200 businesses in the district have previously signed up to the Confidence Mark initiative, an initiative which reassures customers that it is safe to visit shops and businesses again as restrictions ease.”

The Chair emphasised the importance of staying local and supporting local not only to help prevent the spread of Covid-19, but also to support businesses who make shopping in the Fermanagh and Omagh District such a unique and special experience and who contribute so much to the local community. Councillor Armstrong highlighted that the support offered to local businesses as they reopen to welcome customers back into their premises, would ensure that the towns and villages across the district would retain their vibrancy into the future.

Councillor Armstrong continued;

“While it is a positive step to see the further easing of restrictions, it is still important to remember to maintain social distancing both inside the shop and if queuing outside, wear a face covering and practice good hand hygiene. If possible, it is also recommended that you avoid busy times and try to use contactless payment. Remember to also be courteous to the staff as they operate in this challenging environment.