Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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169. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which he continues to address issues arising from Brexit with particular reference to both the manufacturing and services sectors; the extent to which he continues to ensure that Irish exporters impacted to the least possible extent by Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62314/22]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The Government is continuing to monitor closely the impact that Brexit is having on Irish business. We will continue to help companies diversify, discover new markets and reap the benefits of free trade agreements, and we will work with them to adapt to new realities, including those arising from Brexit.

Our export-led sector has demonstrated considerable dexterity and resilience when faced with ongoing challenges in the global trading environment coupled with the aftermath of Brexit.

The Central Statistics Office compiles statistical data in relation to goods exports and imports. According to the CSO, in 2020 our total goods exports were valued at €162bn. Goods exports to the UK were valued at €14.7bn (of which €12.3bn was exported to Great Britain and €2.4bn to Northern Ireland).

In 2021, our total goods exports were valued at €165bn, an increase of €3bn over 2020. Goods exports to the UK in 2021 were valued at €18.1bn (of which €14.4bn was exported to Great Britain and €3.7bn to Northern Ireland).

There are a number of current challenges that are potential obstacles to international trade such as the war in Ukraine, supply side problems, access to talent, Brexit, inflation and the response mechanisms of different countries. The Department and its agencies are working closely together to try to mitigate against challenges for companies through programmes that improve competitiveness, enhance digital capability and through assisting companies to access new opportunities in overseas markets.