Statement

24th August 2018

Commenting on the publication of no-deal Technical Notices, Michael Bell, Executive Director, Northern Ireland Food & Drink Association said:

“A no-deal Brexit scenario is the worst-case outcome and one which we hope will be avoided.

“However, in the absence of significant progress, we welcome the publication of these notices, which confirm that a no-deal exit from the European Union would be disastrous for our food and drink industry.  

“We share the concerns of colleagues across the UK in relation to the additional burdens which could be placed on the sector if there is a no-deal exit. Any UK food that currently displays EU marks or logos could face a ban on exports to the EU for at least nine months, which would be detrimental to many producers. 

“Northern Ireland is uniquely affected by Brexit and the implications of a no-deal exit would be even more significant here than in other parts of the UK. There is still no substantive information on how businesses here can mitigate against these unique challenges and we call on the UK government to provide guidance as a matter of urgency.  

“As the consequences of a no-deal scenario become apparent, the need for a deal is more crucial than ever.”