Social Democrats Brexit spokesperson, Cian O’Callaghan TD, today called on the Government to step up its preparations for a No Trade Deal Brexit.
Deputy O’Callaghan said:
“Following the threat by the UK Government to renege on the withdrawal agreement, the prospect of a worse-case scenario No Trade Deal Brexit is very real.
“43% of Irish Beef and 37% of Irish food exports are to the UK. In the event of a No Trade Deal Brexit, World Trade Organisation tariffs amounting to €1.5 billion would apply to these exports.
“Preparations must be stepped up to support Irish jobs and exporters in the event of a failure to agree a trade deal. In such a scenario, the Irish Government will need to secure very strong and active support from the European Union to protect Irish jobs and food exports.
“In addition, more than €15 billion of goods are exported each year from Ireland into other European Union countries through the UK Landbridge. While non-perishable goods can be transported directly to Europe by alternative routes, any delays at Dover and Calais will cause severe challenges for exporters of ‘just in time’ perishable deliveries.
“The Government needs to work with exporters on contingency plans in the event of severe delays at UK ports.
“The conclusion of a trade deal which ensures tariff-free trade, and which also protects the integrity of the European single market, is in the best interests of Ireland, the UK and the European Union. However, it is essential that Ireland is fully prepared in the event of a No Trade Deal Brexit.”
September 9, 2020