Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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1062. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the agrifood sector will be supported through the Brexit adjustment reserve; the likely timescale for the development of such schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11307/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Negotiations on the Commission's recent proposal on the Brexit Adjustment Reserve are now under way. The proposal is currently being considered separately by the Council and by the European Parliament, and their respective positions will, in due course, form the basis of trilogue negotiations between the three institutions. In the Council discussions, Ireland is continuing to argue our case that substantial funding is needed to assist the most affected sectors of the Irish economy.

The proposed allocation for Ireland reflects the extensive engagement that I and my Cabinet colleagues have undertaken to present the unique, adverse and disproportionate impact of Brexit on Ireland. In particular, I am acutely aware of the impact on the agrifood sector, which will continue to evolve over the coming months. My officials will continue to assess this impact, and consider the development of appropriate and targeted supports.

It is important to acknowledge the significant Government expenditure on Brexit that has already taken place. We have invested in new infrastructure, IT systems and staff. We have deployed new supports for businesses. And I continue to engage extensively with stakeholders to assist them in adjusting to the impacts of Brexit.