The Prepared Consumer Foods (PCF) sector within Food Drink Ireland has highlighted the need for clarity for food exporters and importers as the Brexit deadline looms.
Reacting to the rejection of the Withdrawal Agreement in the House of Commons, Linda Stuart-Trainor, director for Prepared Consumer Foods in Food Drink Ireland, said: “The transition period was a vital element of the Withdrawal Agreement for those importing and exporting raw materials, ingredients and finished food products.
"This would have given businesses time to adapt to the new reality and allow both sides to prepare and agree on their future relationship."
UK Export Figures
In a statement, the Ibec group that represents the food and drink sector highlighted that the Irish PCF sector employs over 20,000 people and two-thirds of its exports go to the UK.
"A short extension to the Brexit deadline would do little but create additional costs for these businesses; therefore a long extension is the best way forward," suggested Stuart-Trainor.
"In parallel, the Irish Government must move quickly to clarify the compliance obligations that will apply to food businesses from Day 1 in the case of a ‘no deal’ outcome. Companies also urgently need more information on the supports that will be available to them in that scenario.”
© 2019 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
