The rollout of Northern Ireland's High Street Voucher Scheme is expected "at the start of Autumn", the Economy Minister has said.
Every person in Northern Ireland aged 18 and over will be eligible to apply for a pre-paid card worth £100 to spend in their local high street as part of the scheme.
It is a vital part of the Economic Recovery Action Plan which is designed to stimulate local businesses, including retail and hospitality sector outlets, following the pandemic.
On Wednesday Economy MInister Diane Dodds was answering questions from MLAs on the Economy Committee about her Recovery Action Plan.
When asked by UUP MLA John Stewart about the scheme and how it will support indigenous business, Mrs Dodds said it is a "cornerstone" of the country's recovery plan.
She told the committee it is expected to be rolled out "at the start of the Autumn" and is currently at the procurement stage.
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The timing of the vouchers being made available has been attributed to an expected surge in customers hitting the shops now, in the immediate weeks after non-essential retail reopened. It is hoped the scheme will begin when shops may be seeing demand decrease and the vouchers are intended to be a boost for the High Street.
Eligible individuals aged 18 and over will be asked to apply for the pre-paid card through a dedicated online portal. The card must be used in ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses within Northern Ireland and cannot be used online.
Shoppers are being urged to support independent and family-run businesses through the NI High Street Voucher Scheme when it launches.
Glyn Roberts, Retail NI Chief Executive, told Belfast Live it was important the scheme was promoted to encourage the public to spend the money with independent and family-run businesses.
Mr Roberts said there was a "real determination" from the public to support local following the pandemic, which he said was good to see.
"I think the intention is for local family-owned businesses and independent retailers to benefit [from the scheme]," he said.
"We made the appeal for people now returning to stores to make the effort to support independent retailers, they have been hit hardest over lockdown.
"We need to get behind our local independent retailers."
Mr Roberts added: "I would hope the general public will rally to support their local independent retailers and local hospitality businesses through the scheme."
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