Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Mr. Gaynor and thank him for his presentation. I commend him and Dundalk Chamber of Commerce on the various initiatives he described. They are fighting their corner and taking a proactive approach to dealing with the fallout from Brexit. When European Union officials or members of the Bundestag speak about special cases, it should be recalled that Britain's decision to leave the EU is unprecedented. We are in uncharted territory and the effects of Brexit on the island of Ireland are unique. We can stand over position without fear of contradiction. Other countries will be affected because they all have trade links with the UK but, for the many reasons highlighted, Ireland's position in the EU is unique.

Mr. Gaynor provided a profile of the retail sector in Dundalk. The recession was tough on retail throughout the country. What are the trends in Dundalk in terms of independent traders versus multiple retailers? What are the online challenges facing retailers and how are they responding? Online shopping is increasing, particularly among younger people. What percentage of customers in retail outlets in Dundalk are from the North and how many people from Dundalk travel to the North to shop? Are figures available?