Up to 100 jobs at risk at Duke of York and Harp Bar

The company which operates the Belfast city centre pubs – the Duke of York and the Harp Bar – is planning to make up to 100 staff redundant.

Commercial Court Inns has said that both establishments will remain closed for the “foreseeable future”.

The BBC understands workers were told that they were at risk of redundancy on Friday.

The company has now entered into a consultation period with employees.

A mixture of full-time and part-time workers are employed at both pubs.

A spokesperson for Commerical Court Inns said: “It is with a heavy heart that we confirm that The Duke of York and Harp Bar will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

“Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to find an economically viable way to reopen these iconic venues, which were built for convivial conversation, craic and live music in close quarters.

“The time will come when these doors will reopen and the lights will be turned back on.

“The craic and conversation will return and the reunion will be all the sweeter for the wait.”

The coronavirus pandemic has caused severe difficulties for the pub industry over the past few months.

Hospitality industry figures in the Derry and Strabane council area have warned about job losses.

Derry Chamber called the decision “bitterly disappointing.”

Redmond McFadden said the measures placed “greater pressure on our already struggling businesses”.

Following a significant drop in the infection rate in the summer, hotels, restaurants, cafes and pubs which serve food were allowed to reopen on 3 July.

Bars which did not serve food faced a much longer wait but, on 23 September, drink-only bars in Northern Ireland were also permitted to trade again.

No alcohol or food can be served after 22:30 at night and all customers must leave the premises by 23:00.