Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

My Department is engaging with officials in DG Competition. They are putting the case forward and outlining the difficulties Brexit will present for businesses in this country.

With regard to the lack of preparedness of businesses, the Deputy is correct. In a survey carried out last year, it was found that 16% of businesses had a plan and that the rest did not. Through Enterprise Ireland, there has been a significant public campaign advising businesses to prepare themselves for Brexit, identify the risks and mitigate against them. There is a €5,000 grant for which Enterprise Ireland clients can apply to assist in examining their risks. As public representatives, we need to encourage businesses to avail themselves of the supports that exist. I am very conscious that businesses need to be ready for Brexit.

See this speech in context