SDLP Foyle representatives Mark Durkan MP and Pat Ramsey MLA have met with Derry city centre traders to show their support for the campaign to strike a fair rate for struggling business owners.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Durkan said the current economic climate continued to provide “significant challenges” for local traders.
He added: “Town and city centres across the North are filled with empty retail units and charity shops, providing a constant reminder of how acute our business problems are.
“It is vital, therefore, that we take action at every level of government. From Derry and Strabane council through to the Assembly, the Executive and Westminster, we must ensure that the traders of our city get the best deal that allows their businesses to survive and thrive.”
Mr Ramsey said the SDLP would continue to fight for the “best deal” for those struggling in the “current business climate.”
Mr Ramsey added: “It has once again been an eye opening experience to listen to the extreme challenges facing traders in our city.
“We are committed to supporting the fair rates campaign and will ensure it is brought to the attention of key decision makers.
“We will be meeting with Finance Minister Simon Hamilton in the coming weeks to give our local retailers in the city centre the opportunity to put their cases to the Minister, and impress upon him the need for radical change for small traders if they are to remain viable businesses that employ local people.”
Tags:
