Jim O'Callaghan
Question:96. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of preparedness for a no-deal Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4181/19]
View answerTuesday, 29 January 2019
Questions (96)
Written answers
Work across Government has identified key issues arising in each Brexit scenario, including in a no deal scenario.
At its meeting of 11 December the Government agreed, that while work on Brexit preparedness for the central case scenario should continue, in light of ongoing political uncertainties and the Brexit deadline of 29 March, greater immediate priority must now be given to preparations for a no deal Brexit.
Following this, the Government published its Brexit Contingency Action Plan on 19 December which sets out detailed sectoral analyses and approaches to mitigating the impacts of a no deal Brexit. Ireland's Action Plan is consistent with and complementary to the approach being taken at EU27 level to prepare for the UK's withdrawal.
On 15 January, further discussion at Cabinet took this work forward in the important areas of transport connectivity and medicines, with Memos brought to Government by Minister Ross and Minister Harris respectively.
While ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement is still the Government's preferred outcome, last week the Government published the general scheme of proposed primary legislative measures required in the event of a no deal Brexit.
The draft Omnibus Bill focuses on measures protecting our citizens and supporting the economy, enterprise and jobs, particularly in key economic sectors.