Brexitoffers opportunities andchallenges
A CONFERENCE on the ‘Opportunities and Challenges of Brexit for County Wexford,’ is being organised by county councillor Malcolm Byrne at the end of next month.
‘It will be non-political and will have a primary focus on identifying issues that will be of specific concern to the county in the context of an increasingly likely hard Brexit,’ Cllr Byrne told this newspaper.
‘I want it to be as inclusive as possible and to focus on the issues. I am keen to have a business input as much as possible,’ said Cllr Byrne.
He said he believed that Wexford could benefit in certain areas from Brexit while also dealing with significant challenges.
‘Brexit will be one of the biggest political, economic and social challenges facing Wexford, Ireland and Europe over the next decade. In everything from movement of people and goods at our ports and airports; through the impact on agriculture and industry; to student exchange and research partnerships, Brexit will provide challenges. But there are also opportunities. Wexford companies will now be at an advantage competing in the EU compared to UK companies. We may also be able to attract more continental tourists.
‘While much of what may happen is now speculation, we have got to start to plan and ensure that businesses, farms, individuals are prepared for the changes that lie ahead.
‘We need to work together to overcome the significant obstacles Brexit will pose but equally to seize opportunities. What I want to do is for us to start that discussion meaningfully and ensure that we are ready in Wexford,’ said Cllr Byrne.
The event will take place at the Clayton Whites Hotel on Thursday, March 30 at 8 p.m. Confirmed speakers include former MEP Avril Doyle, Tom Enright, Chief Executive, Wexford County Council, Karl Fitzpatrick, President, Wexford Chamber, John Lynch, General Manager, Rosslare Europort, Verona Murphy, President, Irish Road Haulage Association, and Noel Whelan, Irish Times Columnist and Barrister, and James Kehoe, Wexford IFA Chair. Malcolm Byrne said he wanted to be as inclusive as possible and if anyone had any specific issues to raise, they should contact him on 086 2237102 or via malcolm.byrne@wexfordmcc.ie.