Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 December 2018
154. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if her attention has been drawn to the percentage of companies that export to Britain that will be Brexit ready by 29 March 2019. [52122/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnterprise Ireland (EI) and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) are the primary providers of supports to assist enterprises within the indigenous sector that are facing challenges arising from Brexit. They are working vigorously to enable companies to consolidate market share within the UK and to become more resilient by broadening their sales to other international markets.
The UK is the leading export destination for Enterprise Ireland supported companies and is the first export destination for many companies. Despite this, Enterprise Ireland supported companies are increasingly diversifying their global footprint beyond the UK. The proportion of our exports going to the UK has reduced by 10% over the last ten years, reflecting the success that Irish companies are having in substantially increasing and broadening their exports to other international markets.
Enterprise Ireland offers a range of activities and supports for client companies throughout the country to innovate and remain competitive in international markets and is working with its clients to ensure they are resilient to economic shocks, such as Brexit.
As part of Enterprise Ireland’s response to Brexit, the agency launched the following two supports to drive Brexit awareness and preparedness:
- Brexit Scorecard: This interactive online platform can be used by all Irish companies to self-assess their exposure to Brexit under six business pillars. Based on answers supplied by the user, the Scorecard generates an immediate report which contains suggested actions and resources, and information on events for companies to attend, to prepare for Brexit.
- Be Prepared Grant: This grant offers SMEs a grant of up to €5,000 to assist them in preparing an action plan for economic shocks such as Brexit. The grant can be used to help cover consultancy, travel and travel expenses associated with researching the direction of their action plan. For example, this might involve investigating the feasibility of diversifying into new markets and market segments; investment in innovation; improvement in operational competitiveness; and/or enhancement of strategic financial capability.
In terms of effectiveness of the supports, a recent survey of 2,400 Enterprise Ireland clients found that 85% of them are taking Brexit-related actions. This is a positive indication that companies are undertaking Brexit preparedness actions.
Working closely with Enterprise Ireland’s global network, the agency will continue to support its client companies plan, innovate, compete and diversify their exports in order to support companies navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by Brexit. In this regard, Enterprise Ireland’s new customs training and the planned LEOs customs training will help to demystify customs procedures for both exporting and importing companies. In addition, Enterprise Ireland and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade regional advisory clinics have been held around the country to assist companies prepare for Brexit.
