Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 December 2021
264. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the degree to which he and his ministerial colleagues throughout the European Union continue to co-ordinate efforts in the fight against Brexit; if extra measures are being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62734/21]
View answerMy colleagues across the European Union and I remain alert to the challenges and the potential economic impacts arising from Brexit. As one of the most affected Member States by Brexit, I pay particular attention to the effective implementation of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) and to the Withdrawal Agreement, which includes the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland. Across the EU, solidarity with Ireland in respect of Brexit remains steadfast. The Member States support the Commission's approach in engaging and responding to genuine concerns from people and businesses in Northern Ireland.
As I mentioned in my Budget speech in October, it is important that we continue to prepare for any unforeseen consequences over the coming period. The Government remains focused on protecting our economic and financial interests, and will continue to work to minimise the disruption that Brexit will have on the economy and peoples’ livelihoods to the greatest extent possible.
The Government has dedicated substantial resources to preparing for Brexit and the systems in place are working well. We have invested significantly in new infrastructure, systems and staff, and continue to engage intensively with stakeholders and to provide a range of financial, upskilling and advisory supports for impacted sectors and businesses.
Ireland will be the largest beneficiary from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR), the aim of which is to provide financial support to the most affected Member States, regions and sectors to deal with the adverse consequences of Brexit. Ireland is to receive €1.165 billion from the BAR, with the first disbursement of funds to be paid before the end of 2021. Funding will be directed at areas such as enterprise supports; supports for the agrifood and fisheries sectors, reskilling and retraining; and checks and controls at our ports and airports.
