Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for waiting. It matters when a senior Minister does that. Today, I spoke to an importing and exporting company in Leitrim that has been meticulous in its preparation for Brexit from day one. As part of its business, it imports and exports materials from Europe and the carriers pass through the UK, where delays are up to a week. To maintain a reduced level of production, the business's only solution is to import three or four times the quantity of raw materials it needs. Will the Minister use his influence with the banks to ensure additional credit lines on a temporary basis for such companies? Behind the scenes - I do not expect him to respond to this - I ask him to use his influence to encourage the UK to upskill and employ sufficient numbers to process further checks.

My second question concerns public procurement. What measures has, or can, the Government put in place to assist Irish companies that want to tender for work in the UK? Barriers have been put in place and I understand that, but I refer to providing good information and proper signposting for these companies. Furthermore, where there is a divergence in standards between us and the UK, what protections are in place for Irish companies that want to tender for work in the Republic? This is a huge issue in the Border region.

My final question, to allow the Minister time to answer, is in regard to dairy. He responded to Deputy Cahill and I listened to what was said. Lakeland and Glanbia were mentioned. As the Minister knows, this is a huge issue for co-operatives along the Border, including Aurivo. A total of 20% of its milk comes from Northern Ireland. This has a massive impact on the north-west and Border region. I accept the Minister's bona fides that he is working with Commissioner Sefcovic and others to find solutions, but we always knew this was going to happen. Is there any route to a possible solution that the Minister can see? Will he give an up-to-date report on baby milk formula exports to China? Written replies will do if he does not have time.

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