Mr Tennyson was speaking after securing support for an independent review of non-domestic rates reliefs in the Northern Ireland Assembly yesterday (13 May). 

The Upper Bann MLA said: “Many hospitality businesses are facing an unprecedented crisis. Having weathered disruption caused by the pandemic, they are now contending with Brexit-related labour shortages, a cost-of-living crisis with customers having less disposable income, and a cost-of-doing business crisis with energy costs eroding their bottom line. 

"An independent, holistic, root-and-branch review of non-domestic rate reliefs is the first step towards ensuring our rating system is fair, progressive, and supports economic growth. I welcome the Assembly's support for Alliance's amendment proposing such a review. 

"I trust the Minister will heed the views of the Assembly and progress a review at the earliest opportunity. Our hospitality sector cannot afford undue delay."