The Northern Ireland business community has united in strongly condemning the violence, disorder and intimidation witnessed in recent days across Northern Ireland.
In a joint statement, a group representing no less than 19 business groupings said there can be no justification for attacks on people, property or communities. Such actions undermine the values of respect, inclusion and mutual understanding that are essential to a peaceful and prosperous society.
“Northern Ireland’s economy and public services depend on people from many backgrounds who have chosen to live and work here. Migrant workers make a vital contribution across every sector of our economy, including health and social care, hospitality, manufacturing, construction, agri-food, retail and professional services. Their skills, commitment and entrepreneurship help sustain businesses, strengthen public services and enrich our communities.
“Northern Ireland has worked hard to build a reputation as a welcoming place to live, work, visit and invest. Images of violence and division risk damaging that reputation at a time when we are seeking to attract tourists, international talent, investment and raise living standards. Such incidents create unnecessary harm to local communities.
“As representatives of the business community, we believe our future prosperity depends on creating a society that is open, inclusive and welcoming to all. We reject attempts to sow division and fear, and we stand with all those who are working to promote respect, safety and community cohesion.
“We urge everyone to reject violence, support the rule of law and work together to ensure Northern Ireland remains a place where all people are treated with dignity and respect.”
Clare Guinness, CEO at Belfast Chamber, said:
“The scenes of violence witnessed across Belfast over recent days are deeply disturbing and must be unequivocally condemned. While Belfast Chamber supports the right to peaceful protest, there can be no justification for disorder, intimidation or the disruption of businesses, communities and public services.
“Belfast is a city that must continue to attract investment, talent, and opportunity from around the world, but the images emerging over recent days risk undermining the city’s reputation as a safe place to live, work, visit and invest. At a time when we need political leadership and collaboration to drive the city forward, businesses, schools and local communities are instead dealing with the consequences of wanton violence. We urge all those involved to step back from further disorder and allow Belfast to move forward.
“We have been speaking with Chamber members from across the city and there is genuine concern about the impact these disturbances are having on businesses, employees and customers. Many have been forced to close or alter operations, while others are facing financial losses at an already challenging time. The livelihoods of local people should not become the collateral damage of acts of violence.”
Meanwhile, Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said:
“Last night’s attacks on the homes and businesses of members of our migrant communities are utterly reprehensible and have no place in the Northern Ireland of 2026. We should not forget the significant contribution that migrant communities make to our public services and to the retail sector, both as employers and employees within Northern Ireland’s largest private-sector industry.
“This ongoing, racially motivated disorder is causing significant damage to Northern Ireland’s economy and its international reputation as a place to live, work and invest.
“Retail NI continues to engage with the PSNI as the situation develops. Business owners should make their own assessment regarding opening hours, while keeping in mind the safety of staff and customers, as well as any disruption to public transport services.”