Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Verhofstadt for his address and for his visit to Monaghan and the other Border counties yesterday. Much of what has been said today concerns what scenario we are to face, in that, it is in the future and the negotiation must conclude - if it is to conclude - successfully. However, the reality for many people in this State is that the decision of the British people to leave the EU has been having a dramatic economic impact for some considerable time already.

In solidarity with hard-pressed sectors of our economy, will the EU respond with assistance and supports for struggling Irish enterprises? As has been mentioned, these enterprises are found especially in the agrifood industry. Mr. Verhofstadt may have met some of them yesterday. Coming from County Monaghan, where Mr. Verhofstadt was yesterday, and representing Cavan and Monaghan as I do in this Chamber, I am conscious of the reality of daily life for many people. There is a sizable fear that, whatever is decided, sectors will be significantly reduced and jobs lost without solid economic supports.