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Brexit Stakeholder Forum plans for Windsor Framework implementation and new UK border controls

The Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin TD and the Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Peter Burke TD, today convened a meeting of the Brexit Stakeholders Forum in Iveagh House. Key stakeholders from business, trade unions, state agencies and other leading experts took part in a discussion on upcoming Brexit-related changes.

Speaking at the Brexit Stakeholder Forum, the Tánaiste said: “Since the last meeting of the Brexit Stakeholder Forum we have had a significant breakthrough with the agreement of the Windsor Framework between the EU and the UK. The Windsor Framework arrangements can provide stability and certainty in post-Brexit trade and business relations across these islands. They give Northern Ireland a unique advantage, being part of the UK internal market and having access to the EU Single Market.

“I heard first hand yesterday in Belfast the level of investment interest there is in Northern Ireland. What we need now is the restoration of the power-sharing institutions, and the North South Ministerial Council, so that Northern Ireland can make the most of these opportunities.”

Minister of State Burke added: “The outworkings of the UK’s departure from the European Union continue to impact Ireland. 

“A significant change over coming months will be the introduction by the UK government of new checks and controls on goods, which will be introduced from the end of January 2024.  

“The new UK controls will have a direct impact on the operations of Irish businesses exporting goods from Ireland to the UK or across the UK landbridge. I’m encouraging all Irish exporters to examine their supply chains, speak to their customers in the UK and to their transport/logistics providers. Early and full engagement on these new UK customs and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) requirements will help ensure businesses are ready for these new changes.”

The Government will continue to work with sectors impacted by these new UK controls and there is a range of advice on the Brexit website (www.gov.ie/Brexit).

ENDS

14 September 2023

Note to Editors

The Brexit Stakeholder Forum has met on a regular basis since 2017, bringing together key stakeholders and facilitating the sharing of insights to enable wider understanding of Ireland’s overall priorities, and providing a platform for sectoral expertise to underpin the Government’s comprehensive approach to Brexit.