Belfast City Council has launched a consultation on extending Sunday opening hours for large shops. The process closes on 14 May.

Usdaw plans to object to the proposal. The union reviewed the issue last year, in 2024, 2020, 2017 and earlier. Usdaw General Secretary Joanne Thomas stated the council should address other retail challenges instead.

Usdaw members oppose longer hours. Union officials said the change would pressure staff to work more and reduce family and community time.

The union added that smaller retailers would suffer. Those businesses gain trade on Sunday mornings, such as at St George's Market.

Usdaw noted no evidence shows economic gains or new jobs from extended hours.

Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts called the plan outdated. He said full deregulation would harm small independents that trade on Sunday mornings.

Roberts urged councillors to pursue new strategies for retail support with government, businesses, workers and unions.

Retail workers currently have six full shopping days plus limited Sunday afternoons.