A Brexit deal must be reached, which minimises any potential disruption in cross border trade on the island of Ireland, according to Northern Ireland’s Secretary of State James Brokenshire.
“There is common ground between the Irish and UK authorities on many of these issues.
“A number of meetings, involving representatives from both governments at the highest level, have already taken place,”
And, he said this process will gain further momentum during the period ahead.
The Secretary of State also recognises that Northern Ireland will be regarded as a region with special requirements in the upcoming Brexit negotiations.
The key role played by the farming and food industries will be fully recognised in this context.
Brokenshire said Northern Ireland’s food and drink sector makes a vital contribution to economic life both in the North and in the wider UK, as it sustains tens of thousands of jobs and livelihoods.
“The UK Government is focused on securing continued growth across the whole UK economy and forging new international trading links.
“We see Northern Ireland’s food and agriculture sector having an important role in this,” he said.
Brokenshire made these comments while attending a Northern Ireland Business Advisory Group meeting, hosted by Moy Park in Co Armagh.
The UK’s Minister for Exiting the European Union Robin Walker attended the event where he said the UK people voted to leave the EU and it’s the duty of the Government to make sure it happens.
We’re confident of getting a good deal for the whole country, but to do this we need a UK-wide approach as we prepare for negotiations.
“That’s why I’m in Northern Ireland – to hear from the people, groups and businesses that have helped to build Northern Ireland’s success and who will continue to build a brighter, more secure future for the people who live here,” he said.
