Big turnout at conference hears importance of being ‘Brexit Ready’

Almost 400 people, mostly from the business community on both sides of the border, gathered in the Carrickdale Hotel last Wednesday, for a conference which looked at the challenges posed by Brexit.

The Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and keynote speaker, Simon Coveney was among those who hammered home the importance of ensuring that the business community in the border region is ‘Brexit-Ready’.

The conference itself was an example of the close working relationship in the region as it was organised by Dundalk and Newry Chambers of Commerce, Louth County Council, Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, InterTradeIreland and Local Enterprise Offices in Newry and Louth.

Attendees heard from a wide range of speakers providing very comprehensive advice on issues such as taxation, customs and movement of people.

‘Brexit is one of the most significant challenges facing business and our community in recent generations,’ said Cllr. Colm Markey, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council. ‘Because of its potential impact it is critically important businesses start preparing for Brexit.’

Describing the conference as ‘an unique event’, he noted ‘ the spirit of collaboration is not new to this area.’

Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Councillor Roisin Mulgrew said

‘Bretix will have a negative impact on our ability to draw down EU funding, on job creation, inward investment and cross border infrastructure.’ However they were ready to embrance the challnge and take advantage of any opportunity which might arise,’

Speaking afterwards, President of Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, Michael Gaynor reported: ‘We are delighted with the huge turnout of attendees and the success of the event. The collective nature of engagement was unprecedented and further validates the importance of this issue for all of our members.’