Sinn Fein and Alliance councillors in Belfast have backed plans to allow large shops across Belfast to open for longer on Sundays.
The pilot scheme was opposed by the DUP, SDLP, UUP, Greens, TUV and PBP.
Under the pilot scheme, Belfast City Council won’t enforce the current order that limits opening hours on Sundays for shops with floor space greater than 280 square metres.
Alliance councillor Michael Long posted on X, saying he was “pleased” that the pilot has moved ahead.
Pleased pilot for extended Sunday trading hours has moved ahead. Now working with BIDS, Belfast Chamber, Translink & Unions to develop a special Sunday, based on animation, supporting all businesses & hospitality, as well as more shopping hours for residents and visitors. pic.twitter.com/DVMsJKGR84
— Michael Long (@CllrMichaelLong) May 1, 2025
The SDLP’s Matthew O’Toole, Leader of the Opposition at Stormont, posted: “Having promised an overhaul of workers rights (but not published an actual Bill) on Monday, Sinn Féin tonight worked with Alliance to force an extension of Sunday opening for giant retailers, against the express wishes of workers, trade unions and small shops.
Having promised an overhaul of workers rights (but not published an actual Bill) on Monday, Sinn Féin tonight worked with Alliance to force an extension of Sunday opening for giant retailers, against the express wishes of workers, trade unions and small shops.
— Matthew O'Toole (@MatthewOToole2) May 1, 2025
And on May day…
An amendment that called for the decision to be deferred and for legal advice to be sought from the Department for Communities did not pass.
Speaking before councillors, an USDAW representative said that 90 per cent of their members opposed any relaxation of Sunday trading rules.
