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MP for Lagan Valley at Westminster Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has been fighting the battle for Northern Ireland travel agents, particularly hard hit by the Covid pandemic in the past year and a half.
The MP, who was recently elected Leader of the DUP, has been seeking a continuation of the furlough scheme and more clarity on the repayment of loans, which many local agents were forced to take out to cover their overheads.
Mr Donaldson has raised the issue of the extension of the Furloughing Scheme for businesses in the travel sector with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and has also asked that “Ministers in the Northern Ireland Executive join me in making representations to the Treasury about this matter”.
He says he recognises the unique and extremely difficult situation travel agents across the Province have found themselves in due to the global restrictions on travel, and says that he hopes “that the Government will recognise the continuing pressures faced by businesses in this important sector and will agree to extend the Furloughing Scheme for a further period”.
Mr Donaldson’s letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer was passed to Treasury Minister John P. Glen who replied to Sir Jeffrey.
In his letter of response, the Treasury Minister explained that the government feels that “together, the 12-month payment holiday and interest-free period for borrowers, along with the PAYG options, provide a generous support package giving businesses the time to get back on their feet”.
However, he failed to address the issue of continuing the furlough scheme for travel agents, or clarify how travel agents, who are still struggling to survive due to the government’s ongoing travel restrictions and ever-changing traffic-light system, are going to find the funds to make repayments on the loans or retain staff once the furlough scheme ends.
Mr Glen goes on: ““The Government launched BBLS on 4 May 2020 to ensure that the smallest businesses could access loans of up to £50,000 to help businesses through this difficult period. Under BBLS no repayments are due from the borrower for the first 12 months of the loan, giving businesses the breathing space they need during this difficult time.
“In addition, the Government covers the first 12 months of interest payments charged to the business by the lender.
“Together, the 12-month payment holiday and interest-free period for borrowers, along with the PAYG options, provide a generous support package giving businesses the time to get back on their feet.”
Sandra Corkin, owner of Oasis Travel, the Province’s biggest independent travel agency business, described the response as a welcome start. She said: “Sir Jeffrey has also written to the Gordon Lyons, Stormont Economy Minister and the Chancellor for tailored support so their response will be critical.”
The 'Travel' Life of Brian 