Matt Shanahan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I used to do some work with the enterprise board and INTERREG was a significant programme in terms of trying to develop cross-Border trade. It is interesting, if we look at the Northern economy, that there is a significant number of people up there who are employed by the state and productivity would not reflect the numbers we have down here, although it is improving. The case is that there is great opportunity and potential in the Northern Irish economy under the present trade agreement. That suggests a question as to where Northern Irish politics is going and where those supporting the Brexiteers are going. The issues that Mr. Johnson is having now, I would contend, are probably adding further fears on the possible future triggering of Article 16. I know we are doing everything possible but we need to keep selling the economic message. The shared island message is also very important for people in the North so they know they have a significant future tied to the Republic of Ireland.

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