The CBI has responded in detail to the UK
Government’s announcement of a future partnership paper on the
UK-Irish border.
Josh Hardie, CBI Deputy
Director-General, said:
“This paper suggests that the UK Government is going
in the right direction, but there’s a way to go before businesses
are reassured that trade will continue smoothly after
Brexit.
“It’s welcome that the UK Government has recognised
in this paper that an interim period will be crucial to providing
clarity for companies on the island of Ireland. This
matters for jobs and investment for both European countries as
well as the UK.
“Uncertainty weighs particularly heavy for firms and
families in the region. Companies are making long-term
investment decisions now and need to see much more detail on
these proposals in the coming weeks.
“What’s needed now is a pragmatic approach on all
sides – this is an issue of mutual interest. A significant step
up in engagement between the UK Government, Irish Government,
local policy makers and businesses is needed.”
On future economic relationships, Josh
said:
“On goods, it is right that these proposals recognise
the significant integration between both the Republic of Ireland
and Northern Ireland, and between Great Britain and the island of
Ireland.
“Until a future UK-wide customs system is in place,
it is difficult to see how any guarantees can be given about the
absence of physical borders or checkpoints. While proposals
for exemptions on smaller firms are welcome, this raises a number
of questions about how the system will be monitored and
enforced.”
On energy, Josh said:
“The UK Government is absolutely right to highlight
the continued operation of a Single Electricity Market as the
best option for the ongoing security of supply for businesses and
people on the island of Ireland.”
On security and people, Josh
said:
“It’s vital that any future border arrangement does
not jeopardise the significant progress made as a result of the
strong foundations established by the St Andrews/Good Friday
Agreements.
“The Government’s offer to continue funding the PEACE
programme is a particularly welcome signal of their commitment to
the Good Friday Agreement. And assurances that the Common Travel
Area and rights for Irish citizens will continue to operate in
their current form are positive.”
