The government’s salary support scheme will continue to remain open to businesses in the travel and tourism sector, and also launderettes where, in the year before the pandemic, more than 50% of the businesses’ turnover was derived from the hotel and tourist trade.

The last period for which other sectors can apply for salary support covers April 26 to May 23.

Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan MHK said: ’The salary support scheme has played a vital role in providing financial assistance to individuals and businesses during the pandemic, and will remain in place for a little longer to support the travel and tourism sector until the border restrictions move to level 1.’

The amount of the support and method of claiming remains the same, with the maximum amount staying at £310 for a full-time equivalent employee per week.

All applicants need to demonstrate a reduction in revenue of at least 25% due to Covid-19 restrictions.

For further information about the salary support scheme, call 648125.