Belfast City Council has proposed allowing large stores to open all day on Sundays. Current rules limit them to afternoon hours only. The plan has support from Sinn Féin and Alliance, forming a majority.

Trade unions oppose the change, stating it would increase pressure on workers and harm family and community life. Some business groups argue it would damage small independent retailers.

The SDLP, Greens, People Before Profit and the three unionist parties all oppose the proposal. Supporters say extended hours would benefit the tourist industry and boost footfall for businesses of all sizes.

The council aims to use a loophole in 1997 legislation, which allows extended opening in holiday resorts. That law permits small shops to open all day and stores over 280 square metres to operate from 1pm to 6pm.

In 2023, the council announced a six-week pilot for all-day opening by not enforcing the law. The pilot was confined to the city centre and cancelled after Sinn Féin withdrew support.

Parties against the plan have criticised the loophole approach. The legislation falls under a DUP minister at Stormont. No party has proposed closing the loophole there.

Previous council consideration of the issue occurred between 2016 and 2018. Alliance was the only party in favour at that time.