Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 February 2018
287. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation her plans to minimise the impact of Brexit in County Donegal; the engagement she has had with IDA Ireland to ensure it secures new investment in County Donegal in view of Brexit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5434/18]
View answerI fully appreciate the importance of ensuring that Irish businesses, including those located in Donegal, are best able to withstand the pressures that Brexit may exert. That is why, for example, additional financial resources have been secured to support the strategic response to Brexit by our enterprise agencies including IDA Ireland.
Brexit, or more particularly the response to the challenges it presents, is a key factor in shaping IDA Ireland's strategy and operations. This includes the Agency's approach to regional development, finance, planning, marketing and promotional activities. IDA Ireland has also established a specific Brexit Committee to oversee its response to the opportunities and challenges arising from the UK’s exit from the EU. The Agency also has a clear Brexit Plan, which includes one-to-one investor engagements and public relations and media campaigns.
I am very much conscious of the particular trade implications that Brexit may have for Border counties, such as Donegal, where 12 IDA Ireland client companies are based. These companies employ 3,389 people in the County. I am pleased that the level of employment by multinationals in the County has increased by 52% since 2012. The Agency has assured me that it maintains constant engagement with clients across its portfolio in Donegal to encourage them to grow jobs and investments in the County even further.
