Mr. Brian Keegan:

That would very much depend on the particular business sector. The most high profile business sector where we have concerns and which we have highlighted in our representations is the agrifood sector. There are undeniable advantages for everybody associated with that sector in having an all-island approach. It strikes me that even though it is not particularly a customs related issue that tourism, where there is already an all-island approach, would also experience undeniable advantages in that case. Nothing can be done unless we bring into the public arena these kinds of issues and concerns.

With respect to everyone concerned, we talk about the European Union and the UK leaving the Single Market and the four freedoms of movement of goods, people, capital and services. A great deal of the focus has been on the movement of people and a great deal of discussion of borders has been in that context. However, the discussion in relation to goods is relatively recent. We still need to scope out what the issues are. In terms of an all-island approach, if it is possible within the constraints of a timeframe of less than two years and within the constraints of EU law to make arguments and representations, we will do that and are trying to do so now. The documents we have sent to Members of the Oireachtas have also gone to our MEPs, the European Commission and HM Revenue and Customs.