By Q Radio News
Up to 100 jobs are at risk at the popular Duke of York and Harp Bars in Belfast.
The two pubs in the City Centre are to be shut for the "foreseeable future" and are not expected to reopen until at least next year.
A spokesperson for Commercial Court Inns which operates the outlets said they were unable to find an economically viable way to reopen the venues in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
The company has now entered a consultation period with employees.
Colin Neill from Hospitality Ulster says its a stark reminder of the challenges facing the industry.
“Sadly, this situation is indicative of the current trading environment and the real impact that Covid19 is having on the hospitality sector.”
“The toll that this has taken on iconic bars such as the Duke of York and the Harp Bar speaks volumes for how deep trading restrictions are hurting. We are devastated for those employees who have been given this news and know that this will not have been an easy decision to make.”
Colin Neill
"Today's announcement that the Duke of York and the Harp Bar landmarks of our tourism and hospitality industry, will not reopen until some time next year is a stark and cold reminder of the situation that exists in our hospitality industry."
"This is 100 jobs in one go but this is replicated in twos and threes right across the province."
"Our industry has now tipped over the edge. It is unsustainable under the current restrictions and needs continuous financial support if we are going to preserve our industry so it is her after this crisis and to provide us with somewhere to go out and night and provide our tourism industry and create all these jobs."
Swann refuses to rule out resigning if budget is not changed
Fresh inquests ordered into deaths of 15 killed in McGurk’s bomb blast
Trial ends after man accused of murder of young showjumper is found dead
A brief hearing and chaotic scenes as Donaldson makes first court appearance