Imelda Munster
Question:396. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of Brexit start planning vouchers awarded to date. [45096/19]
View answerTuesday, 5 November 2019
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The “Planning Voucher” is offered by InterTradeIreland (ITI) to companies across Ireland that are preparing for Brexit. Valued at €2,250, it enables recipient firms to obtain expert advice on specific areas such as tariffs, currency management, regulatory and customs issues and movement of labour, goods and services. There has been strong demand for this scheme, with over 1,727 vouchers approved to date.
ITI expanded its range of Brexit supports in 2019 to include a new “Brexit Implementation Voucher”. Valued at €5,625, with ITI paying 50%, it allows businesses to implement critical changes, thereby making them better prepared to deal with the new trading relationship ahead.
In addition to its voucher schemes, ITI provides a range of Brexit supports and advice through its special Brexit Advisory Service.
To support ITI’s important work in helping businesses prepare for the challenges associated with Brexit, my Department is providing an additional €1 million in capital funding to ITI in 2019. This funding will enable the body to engage with even more firms through its Brexit Advisory Service, as well as meeting demand for other programmes that support cross-border trade.