Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Nobody is disputing that the Brexit supports should be available to everybody, as of course they should be.

I have pointed it out to the Minister of State - I do not know whether he understands - the extent of the concern, worry and uncertainty that businesses in the Border region face. It is palpable, as they will be hit first. That is why I put in the amendments. It is not to say that nobody else should get supports; that would be a ridiculous statement to make.

My point is that because Border regions are the most exposed, they should be given priority and preference. I cannot see any reason the Government or any other party would not accept that is the reality. I hope they will support the amendments because Border regions will be the first to be hit.

I do not begrudge any other area in the country getting the supports.

Supports should be available for all but given the reality that the Border areas are the most exposed, they should be given preferential and priority treatment.

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