Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister says Brexit is top of her agenda but then goes on to say that Article 50 has not been invoked yet and that she is waiting to see what will happen.

This morning, an article in a newspaper includes a quote from a mushroom farmer from Tipperary, Lavinia Walsh. Basically, she says the impact has developed into a catastrophe for them. She has survived thus far but four of her neighbours, who are also mushroom farmers, have not survived. This must be the first priority.

I am concerned about the response of the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation to Brexit to date. In the weeks and months since the referendum, the Department has had ample time and opportunity to co-ordinate a strategic response. To date, I do not see evidence of this.

The Irish economy, North and South, is facing into what is perhaps the most tumultuous and challenging period since the foundation of the State. Frankly, the best the Minister has to offer, I believe, are her aid plans, which are probably out of date now because of Brexit. The Minister has referred to how €3 million has been allocated. That is peanuts in the context of what we are dealing with. I am keen to hear the Minister's response.

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