Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 February 2013
45. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will comment on the effects of exports to Britain during January due to the strengthening of the euro against sterling; the present outlook for such exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6467/13]
View answerFigures for exports in January 2013 are not yet available. The most recent figures available, for November 2012, show merchandise exports to Britain from January to November 2012 totalling €14.132bn. This represents a 7% increase on exports during the same period in 2011. It is hoped that trade figures for the entire year of 2012 will be available shortly. I am not aware of any significant currency-related problems for Irish companies in the British market but I will keep the situation under review. Britain is Ireland’s largest trading partner and trade with Britain underpins the jobs and livelihoods of a significant proportion of our workforce. It is vital therefore that Ireland remains competitive in the British market, not just in terms of price, of which currency is one factor, but also in terms of quality and value.
The Embassy of Ireland in London and our Consulate General in Edinburgh work very closely with the State business development agencies, all of whom have representation in the British market. All are fully committed to supporting Irish business in the UK. Our Local Market Team sets out a strategic plan annually for promoting trade, tourism and investment and our Ambassador in London is responsible for ensuring its implementation and reporting back to the Export Trade Council, which I chair.
I am broadly optimistic about the outlook for Irish exports to Britain, a very significant market of 60 million people, located close to us and with many shared characteristics and minimal barriers to entry. Another important aspect of my Department’s work in supporting exports to the UK is our extensive engagement on promoting Ireland’s reputation and working with business networks, and with the Global Irish Network, to make contacts and develop opportunities for Irish business in the British market.
