‘Brace yourself for Brexit’ – Minister Phelan urges Kilkenny businesses

By COLIN BARTLEY

WITH the chances of a no-deal Brexit becoming more likely by the day, Kilkenny’s Minister is urging local businesses to prepare for a worst-case scenario.

With just over two months to go to the Brexit deadline, Kilkenny’s Junior Minister, John Paul Phelan is calling on all local businesses to take immediate steps to prepare for the potential risks associated with a UK no-deal, and position themselves to take advantage of the opportunities that will become available.

The Government has released a nine-step plan it wants all Kilkenny businesses to put in place in the event of the UK’s departure from the EU.

“Brexit is less than 10 weeks away. In the midst of this uncertainty it is imperative that Kilkenny companies take immediate action to mitigate the potential risks and position themselves to take advantage of the opportunities,” Minister Phelan said.

“The Government is again appealing to a number of sectors of concern to engage. I strongly urge all businesses operating locally to take immediate steps to make sure their needs are catered for.”

There are 9 steps that businesses, large and small, can do now are:

• Understand the new rules for UK importing and exporting
• Review your supply chain and UK market strategy
• Be aware of possible changes to transport and logistics
• Review all your certification, regulation and licencing
• Review your contracts and data management
• Ensure you are maximising Government Brexit programmes and supports
• Manage your cash flow, currency and make sure your banking is in order
• Protect and inform your staff
• Know more about the impact on your sector

Minister Phelan identified sectors that need to act quickly to minimise the potential negative effects of Brexit on their businesses. These sectors are smaller businesses who may not realize they are trading with the UK, construction, manufacturing, agrifood and food production, hauliers, and independent retailers.

“I strongly urge business locally to ensure they check the wealth of information available on www.gov.ie/Brexit and avail of the range of supports which are available to help Kilkenny businesses get through what may be a very difficult period ahead,” Minister Phelan concluded.