Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 June 2021
53. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures that are being taken to resolve supply issues with imported goods from the UK, namely construction supplies due to Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29961/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile the issue of the import of construction supplies is not specifically a matter for my Department, I am aware of the disruption to global supply chains due to COVID-19 and volatility in logistics and materials prices since the start of the year.
In relation to Brexit impacts on supply chains, my Department and the enterprise development agencies have worked with other Government Departments and relevant agencies and a range of sectors to ensure our businesses were ready for end of the transition period last year and the impacts of the UK leaving the Single Market and Customs Union.
In the case of the retail sector, for example, while there was some initial inevitable disruption as businesses and supply chains adapted to the new customs rules, for the most part the sector has been resilient and adjusted to these changes and product specific issues have been resolved.
A range of other manufacturing and distribution sectors have similarly adjusted and adapted to the new Brexit related requirements.
My Department and agencies continue to work with impacted businesses and to provide grant assistance, including the Ready for Customs grant of up to €9,000 for the recruitment of additional customs declaration staff.
We are also assisting businesses to find alternative sources of supply internationally and to readjust their supply chains.
As economies reopen across the world following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and manufacturing and construction sector activity resumes it will take time for global production of some materials to return to previous levels to address the increases in demand, for the replenishment of stocks and for additional supply to come on stream.
