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Minister Troy meets with InterTradeIreland to discuss Brexit supports for small businesses on both sides of the border

Dublin, Ireland, 14 October 2020 Today Minister of State with responsibility for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Robert Troy T.D., convened a meeting with InterTradeIreland (ITI) to discuss the challenges to trade posed by Brexit, COVID-19 and to hear about the supports ITI is delivering to small businesses in Ireland and Northern Ireland to explore new cross-border markets.

The meeting which was held over video conference with Aidan Gough, Acting CEO and the senior leadership team of ITI, comes at an important time for the body who have faced increased demand for their supports and advisory services from SMEs, as the deadline for Brexit rapidly approaches.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister Troy said “Cross border collaboration is of great benefit to businesses North and South. InterTradeIreland is providing vital supports to small businesses grappling with the challenges of Brexit. The funding announced in yesterday’s Budget of an increased allocation of €675,000 to ITI will enhance the services it provides to businesses on both sides of the border.

“While Brexit has been a major focus of its work, I was encouraged to hear how ITI has also been assisting businesses affected by COVID-19, including through the introduction of two new programmes that aim to help affected firms weather the commercial impact of the pandemic. With the resumption of the North-South Ministerial Council this summer chaired by An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, I look forward to future progress and increased opportunities for cross-border trading.”