Business groups are calling on Northern Ireland politicians to restore the power-sharing executive before Friday’s deadline.

The Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce warned that businesses are “at a tipping point” over rising costs.

It comes as a survey by the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce suggested two-thirds (67%) of members have been hurt by the lack of an executive.

Over 50 businesses based in the north west took part in the survey.

Three-quarters of respondents said it was “extremely important” to have the executive return to provide assistance.

The Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce represents more than 1,000 local businesses, which employ more than 100,000 people.

In a joint statement, president Gillian McAuley and vice-president Cathal Geoghegan said: “We cannot repeat the stagnation of 2017-2020.

“We have been here before and are all too familiar with life without an executive.

“We do not underestimate the political challenges but decisions need to be made.”

They added: “Today, we urge all our political stakeholders at Stormont and in Westminster to reach a resolution with the sense of urgency it demands.”

Aidan O’Kane, president of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, said there was “simply no getting away from the fact that the lack of an executive is worsening the situation” for businesses.

Mr O’Kane added that the chamber’s survey should be a “wake-up call” for elected representatives.

“The fact that 67% of respondents have said that political inaction has damaged their business should be a clear signal that the prospect of further delay is totally unthinkable.

“This is last-chance saloon for local political decision-making – now is the time for action to deliver for our communities,” he added.

The Northern Ireland Assembly recall on Thursday failed to break the deadlock as another elections looms.

BBC