Dr. Eamonn Cahill:

As part of the RIA, we sought observations and submissions from all affected stakeholders, particularly those in industry, large and small, in addition to other entities. We did not receive a great number of submissions. One reason was that the proposed legislation has a minimal impact regarding the licensing for reputable exporters. The licensing regulations and application procedures will, by and large, be as before. The main changes relate to our ability to respond to potential infringements, investigations and so on. It is primarily a question of the enforcement element, which should only be of academic interest to the vast majority of exporters, who are extremely compliant.

As part of the RIA, we applied good practice in respect of identifying where the proposed regulations need to be modified or whether particular exemptions or other measures need to be built in respect of SMEs. It would be neither appropriate nor possible to include exemptions from the regulations for SMEs regarding export controls but we are conscious of the need to put a particular emphasis on helping them. We have put a lot of effort into outreach over the past 12 months. We are always keen to find fora in which to engage with companies one on one as well as collectively. We are always happy to meet representatives of companies one on one in our offices.

To answer the question, we have made considerable efforts to help the sector. It should not feel in any way disadvantaged or disproportionately impacted by the new legislation.