Critical importance of Britain as an economic partner for Ireland

THE “critical” importance of Britain as an economic partner for Ireland and opportunities for further growth between neighbours, was a theme at the invitational lunch meeting between South Dublin County Chamber and British Ambassador Paul Johnston.

A lot has been going on in recent years but the relationship between the two islands is a vital one, that is mutually beneficial and has potential for further opportunities, according to Peter Byrne, South Dublin Chamber CEO.

“We identified through our survey that Brexit was the most important market facing the SME community, who represent the bulk of our members,” said Mr Byrne.

“SMEs are most likely to try a new market, and in Britain, they share the same language, customs and familiarity. We were anxious to show that while Brexit happened, trade is still very good and opportunities are still there.”

Speaking at the lunch, Mairead Fleming, President of South Dublin Chamber welcomed Mayor Alan Edge, County Chief Executive Colm Ward, their corporate members and the British Ambassador Mr Johnston, whom she noted has been “very busy” since his arrival in Ireland in 2020.

“Since your arrival you have had to address the pandemic, the evolving relationship between the UK, Ireland and the EU following the UK’s exit from the EU, as well as Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine. That is an incredible workload and a very challenging one, we are grateful that you are an experienced ambassador,” said Ms Fleming.

The Chamber President cited achievements together with the embassy staff including support for the establishment of the British Irish Chamber of Commerce, and trade missions to Sheffield, Manchester and Edinburgh which “strengthened our economic and chamber ties.”

Ms Fleming, MD at Ascension Executive Recruitment and former Chair of the DSPCA, also reported positive feedback from members in their interactions with UK state agencies.

Peter Byrne our CEO who was appointed by the EU to the EU-UK DAG as an EU Employers representative to oversee trade, believes Ireland has a “huge advantage” with regard to free trade, and ability to live in the UK without visas, unlike other EU members.

Mr Byrne said the meeting with the Ambassador was “timely”, as it followed Britain rejoining the Horizon sciences research programme, and the Copernicus earth observation satellite programme.

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