Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I would like to again raise the issue of Brexit. Recent evidence that has emerged from the Irish Exporters Association clearly shows Government inaction in regard to preparing Irish business for what lies ahead. The Irish Exporters Association has described business as "woefully unprepared for Brexit", which is very worrying and is something the Government would need to sit up and take notice of. The Irish Exporters Association has made several suggestions, all of which appear reasonable, such as increased investment in infrastructure such as broadband, which it describes as "embarrassing", upskilling of SMEs and the development of new trade links.

There seems to be a gap between what businesses need from Government and what is actually being provided. It is clear we need to open up new markets to deal with the post-Brexit situation. It is worrying that the small sum of €4.6 million is all the Minister, Deputy Donohoe, has allocated towards business this year to deal with this threat. This means the IDA, Enterprise Ireland and Bord Bia combined will receive a total of €4.6 million to deal with what most commentators say is the greatest economic threat ever to hit this country. Businesses, particularly those in the Border area, feel very exposed and let down.

It is clear there is a major issue. I ask the Leader to use his good offices to ensure the Taoiseach and his Cabinet are aware of the suggestions of the Irish Exporters Association and that the threats it clearly indicates exist are acted upon as a matter of urgency.