Ms Kerry Curran:

I thank the Deputy. His remarks about the vouchers and the level of concern about Brexit among businesses across the island of Ireland do not tally with those that are formally planning. Based on the insights we have received through our business monitor, businesses are seriously considering the potential impact of Brexit, if not formally planning for it. Of the Irish businesses that took part in our recent survey, 16% stated Brexit was already having a negative impact on them. For cross-Border traders, the figure was 25%. Some 40% have told us that the main area of concern is sales. They are starting to see a change in how sales are made which they have attributed to the concerns about Brexit held by them and their customers and suppliers. This is the case across the island of Ireland. As we break the figures down by county, we can see the depth and reach of that concern. Businesses are taking the issue seriously and already feeling the impact of Brexit.