Cormac Devlin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister and I welcome his remarks on the diplomatic approach. It is important that Ireland avails of this fund as much as possible, considering the grave impact Brexit could have on our economy. We must avail of that compensation fund as much as possible.

The Minister made remarks on the work of the Revenue Commissioners and their engagement with businesses, which I very much welcome. We can see from experience with Covid-19 support schemes that many businesses are, unfortunately, not availing of existing supports. It is important we ensure these businesses are prepared for Brexit and that they also avail of supports that are available to them.

Britain has provided six months for the implementation period in their economy, with a deferral of Brexit customs declarations until 30 June 2021. Would a similar adaptation period be considered by the Minister and his departmental officials here?

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