Belfast Survey Shows Support for Extended Sunday Store Hours
A city council survey found that 82 percent of Belfast residents favor longer Sunday opening hours for large stores during summer months. A committee will consider the proposal on Friday.
The BbcA survey conducted by city officials found that 82 percent of respondents in Belfast support extending Sunday trading hours for large stores during the summer months. The poll received 5,701 total responses, including 3,773 from Belfast residents. Results were published on Thursday.
Currently, large stores with more than 280 square metres of floor space may open only between 13:00 and 18:00 BST on Sundays. Officials will review whether to allow earlier openings at a committee meeting on Friday. The change would require the city to be designated a holiday resort.
Among respondents, 91 percent of those from a Catholic background expressed support, compared with 64 percent from a Protestant background and 85 percent from neither background. Retail workers showed a narrower split, with 48 percent in favor and 47 percent opposed. A separate business survey of 101 respondents found 57 percent support for longer Sunday hours and 38 percent opposition.
A councillor from the Alliance party said the measure had been sought for a decade and could take effect within weeks if other parties agree. The councillor added that the change would give tourists more options on Sunday mornings while protecting workers' rights. A spokesperson for the trade union Usdaw said members have repeatedly stated they do not want Sunday trading laws extended.
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