by Marianne Flood
The first phase of the Brexit deal which protects the soft border between the North and South has been welcomed by local retail experts.
Jim Roddy, Chief Executive Officer of City Centre Initiative (CCI), said it will be vital to the future success of local businesses.
“There was so much uncertainty about the border issue it meant there was very little investment coming in and businesses weren’t willing to expand,” he explained.
“An ease of movement across the border without the queuing and fuss of a hard border is absolutely vital for local retailers.”
Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts agreed Friday’s UK-EU deal would help local businesses move forward with confidence.
“No borders on the island of Ireland or in the Irish Sea were the bottom line in our presentation last week to the House of Commons Brexit Select Committee.
“We are pleased that this is an essential part of this deal. Retail NI wants to see the UK having EU regulatory convergence as the only sure way of avoiding borders anywhere in these islands.
“The UK should stay in the Customs Union and Single Market for a two-year transition and a wider UK and EU Customs agreement thereafter This deal provides the basis for that type of arrangement and will give the local business community greater clarity and confidence.”
Brexit 'boost'
Mr Roddy said Brexit had given an unexpected boost to local trade, with the weakened pound and strengthened euro bringing an influx of southern shoppers.
“The exchange rate has brought increased opportunities for local traders as there are more visitors coming over the border.
“But everyone knows a long term stable environment is needed to boost trade.
“We need more job opportunities so people are able to spend the money that is in their pocket. That is the reality.”
Mr Roberts said a functioning Assembly and Executive is now needed to allow the North to engage in the Brexit process.
“As a matter of urgency the political parties need to start talks to restore the institutions and to do the job they are elected to do.”
“Now more than ever we need the Executive restored and to have local Ministers ensuring Northern Ireland’s voice is heard loud and clear in these challenging times ahead.”
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