Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 25 Jun 1996

Vol. 467 No. 4

Written Answers. - Breakdown of Ceasefire.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

252 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the issues, if any, that have been brought to his attention following the breakdown of the ceasefire by southern companies that have opened up new markets in Northern Ireland over the past 24 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13506/96]

Minister for Tourism and Trade (Mr. E. Kenny)

Neither my Department nor ABT have been approached by any companies who had opened new markets in Northern Ireland over the past 24 months and experiencing difficulties as a consequence of the breakdown of the ceasefire.

It is too early yet to assess the actual impact the current breakdown of the ceasefire may have on North-South trade and it would be premature to make any predictions at this stage. Meanwhile ABT continues to work with companies seeking new business opportunities in the Northern Ireland market and many of the initiatives put in place during the ceasefire will continue to operate. These include the EU Peace and Reconciliation Operational Programme for Northern Ireland and the Border counties now in place which will fully support projects both North and South.

Finally, ABT will continue its efforts to assist southern companies to identify business opportunities in the North and will build on the range of initiatives already in place.