Seanad Brexit Committee launches its ‘Interim Report on the Impacts of Brexit’

Speaking ahead of the launch, Committee Cathaoirleach Senator Lisa Chambers said: “The Committee commenced its work in late 2020 and agreed that the impact of the post-31 December 2020 arrangements on various sectors would be central to its Work Programme.

The Committee sought to provide a platform for businesses, communities, and civil society groups to discuss the impact of Brexit and the operation of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. The intention of the Committee was to provide an in-depth and detailed analysis of the issues impacting people and businesses on the island of Ireland.

The Committee further sought to engage in inter-parliamentary relationship building and held a number of meetings with political representatives from Northern Ireland, the EU and the U.S. to gain an international perspective to the Committee’s work.”

The Cathaoirleach added: “Significant issues were identified throughout Committee engagements, some of which were only brought to the fore in the months following Brexit. These included impacts on trade flows and customs checks, mutual recognition of qualifications, education, health, citizens’ rights, and data flows.

In addition, particular issues arose surrounding the rule of origin and mixed origin products on the island of Ireland and surrounding the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland, both of which continue to present difficulties in ongoing negotiations.

The Committee has, in this Interim Report, provided solution-focused recommendations and looks forward to its return in the Autumn where it will re-commence its examination in order to produce its final report by 31 December 2021.

I would also like to express my gratitude on behalf of the Committee to all the witnesses who attended our public hearings to give evidence for the Interim Report of the Committee.”

Read the full report here.

More information on the Committee can be found on the dedicated Committee Webpage. Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.