Concern is being expressed about what could emerge after today’s government briefings in Dublin and London.
There are calls for more supports to be put in place by the government for those operating here, while it’s being claimed that farming organisations will need to look outside of Europe for export opportunities.
While high-level talks take place today in Dublin, London and Brussels, questions are being asked as to what this Brexit deal – if approved – will mean in Clare.
Already, calls are being made for strong financial support from the government to ensure that the hit is minimal on the economy in the MidWest.
Tourism is one of the sectors that it’s feared could suffer the most and while next year is predicted to see some growth, Managing Director of Shannon Heritage Niall O’Callaghan says they still need certainties.
Shannon Group, meanwhile, has put a call out for investment from the government to ensure that the Airport can strengthen its EU connectivity, post-Brexit.
It’s main hub is currently London Heathrow.
The organisation says it’s vital not just for a boost in passenger numbers in Shannon but for the economic development of the entire West of Ireland.
Its CEO Matthew Thomas says those on the western seaboard cannot be ignored.
And there’s concern too in the agriculture sector, which it’s feared could bear the brunt of the impact of Brexit.
Last year saw just over 40% of agri-food exports from Ireland go to the UK.
Despite what emerges from the deal today, Clare Chair of the ICMSA Martin McMahon wants to see farming organisations target exports outside of Europe to futureproof the industry here.
