Mary Mitchell O'Connor (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 8 and 16 together.

Enterprise Ireland, the local enterprise offices and IDA Ireland are engaging on an ongoing basis with all client companies regarding the impacts being felt as a result of Brexit. They have clear plans in place to mitigate challenges and maximise opportunities arising from the UK decision.

In 2017, I secured additional moneys, both current and capital, as a strategic response to Brexit. I have a particular focus on the trade implications for the Border region and am heavily engaged with all stakeholders in the region on an ongoing basis.

InterTradeIreland also has a programme of initiatives to deal with the practical consequences of Brexit for cross-Border trade. The regional action plan for the north-east and north-west area, which has a strong Brexit focus, aims to support 28,000 new jobs across counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth. There is strong progress to date, with 5,600 more people in employment across the region since the start of 2015. Brexit is a standing item in the implementation meetings on the regional action plan for jobs in the north-east and north-west area.

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