SDLP Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin
The Foyle MLA has tabled a priority written question to the Economy Minister Diane Dodds having failed last week in the Assembly to obtain reassurance that enough officials are engaged in preparations for the UK’s ending of transition arrangements at the end of this year.
Said Ms McLaughlin: “While we are dealing with the crisis of Covid-19 it is essential that officials do not take their eyes off the other major crisis, Brexit.
“Let’s not overlook the December end of the transition arrangements.
!Businesses here have more than enough problems in dealing with the Coronavirus.
“If the ending of transition arrangements takes place without enough planning by officials, then our economy will be facing a totally unnecessary and disastrous ‘double whammy’.
“Let’s be clear, the SDLP has also warned against Brexit and has called on the UK government to extend the transition period.
“But the UK government has rejected this and EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan has warned that he does not believe the UK government wants a negotiated trade deal.
“Certainly the trade negotiations with the EU are a cause for enormous concern.
“We want Northern Ireland officials to be hands-on to protect Northern Ireland’s interests.”
