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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Feb 1996

Vol. 462 No. 2

Written Answers. - North-South Trade.

Ivor Callely

Question:

216 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the likely impact, if any, on southern companies' business opportunities in the North since the collapse of the ceasefire; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4253/96]

Ivor Callely

Question:

218 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the special emphasis that was placed on encouraging companies to identify opportunities in the Northern Ireland market in 1995, in view of the ceasefire which was then in operation; the additional measures, if any, that will be undertaken in view of the current termination of the ceasefire; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4255/96]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 216 and 218 together.

The issues raised are primarily operational matters for An Bord Tráchtála (ABT). I am, however, aware of a number of new initiatives to identify opportunities in the Northern Ireland market that were undertaken by ABT in 1995. These were designed to assist companies identify specific opportunities and included workshops, conferences and numerous publications aimed at encouraging companies to explore and develop its potential.

ABT recently produced a guide to the Northern Ireland market, "Opening the Door to New Profit", detailing the main areas of marketing opportunity within the North. This publication complements the 15 "Market Opportunity" reports produced earlier in 1995 which act as a guide to various market sectors in Ireland, both North and South. The reports were created in response to the lack of basic market information, which was a serious impediment to trade development. They provide comprehensive data, including detailed listings of purchasers in the major industrial, public sector, consumer and tourist markets.
It is too early as of yet, to assess the actual impact the current breakdown of the ceasefire may have on North/South trade and it would be premature to make any predictions at this stage. Meanwhile ABT will continue to work with companies seeking out new business opportunities in the Northern Ireland market and many of the initiatives put in place during the ceasefire will continue to operate. These include the EU Peace and Reconciliation Operational Programme for Northern Ireland and the Border counties now in place which will fully support projects both North and South.
Finally, I know that ABT will be continuing in their efforts to assist southern companies to identify business opportunities in the North and will be building on the range of initiatives already in place.
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