Belfast City Council has approved a six-week pilot scheme to extend Sunday trading hours, a move that has been strongly criticised by the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Under the trial, shops will be allowed to open from 10am on Sundays, instead of the usual 1pm start, raising concerns among religious groups and some politicians.
Reverend Robert Johnston of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church said members were “concerned and saddened” by the decision, adding: “While we are supportive of the idea of revitalising our capital city, there are ways of doing this which do not involve extending the opening hours of shops on a Sunday.”
He also highlighted concerns about workers' rights and family life, noting: “Some politicians and trade unionists have expressed concern... Shops in several European countries are closed on Sundays for this very reason.”
The plans have been backed by Sinn Féin and Alliance, while an amendment to return the issue to committee, supported by the DUP, SDLP, Green Party, UUP, and TUV, was rejected.
Alliance councillor Michael Long said that Sunday mornings in the city centre were often a “bit of a ghost town,” especially for tourists, and expressed hope that the trial could begin in August.
The council has commissioned a report to assess the impact of the extended trading hours and will consult with unions, businesses, and seek legal advice before bringing the matter back to elected representatives.
