Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Over the weekend, it was reported that the British Government had stepped down its front-line Brexit preparations. On the basis of what was announced in the newspapers, it appears that those preparations were massive, cost billions of pounds and involved the deployment of thousands of civil servants. If I understand what the Taoiseach has just stated, I agree that we should not be, and cannot afford to be, complacent about the prospect still on the table of a no-deal Brexit.

Yesterday, the German foreign Minister indicated his country's impatience by saying German patience was wearing thin and that there could be no further extension beyond October.

As we know, a little over half of the 84,000 businesses that trade with the UK have thus far applied for Irish customs registration, which will be needed in the event of a no-deal Brexit. The president of the Road Haulage Association has accused State agencies of still being "unable to answer basic questions". While I appreciate what the Taoiseach has said thus far, fundamental groups such as the Road Hauliers Association deserve to have their concerns addressed and their questions answered.

Does the Taoiseach agree that it is a cause for worry that a little over half of the businesses doing trade with the United Kingdom have yet registered for their customs registration, which will be required, and what will he do about it?

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