BUSINESS leaders have welcomed the opportunity to engage with local government officials on Brexit but want greater clarity from those involved in negotiations on future trading arrangements.
That was the message of those in attendance at an Institute of Directors Northern Ireland (IoD NI) event which heard from senior officials from the Department for the Economy.
The latest in IoD NI’s Connect and Influence series, the event, hosted and sponsored by the System Operator for Northern Ireland (SONI), provided members with the opportunity to engage with the department’s permanent secretary Noel Lavery.
Discussion at the event, which also heard from EirGrid Group chief executive Mark Foley, covered a range of themes, including energy policy, skills, and further and higher education, however, Brexit topped the agenda.
Mark Huddleston, management and leadership ambassador at IoD NI, said: “Officials provided a useful and very insightful update on the current state of play of the local economy with a wider look at the future in the context of Brexit, possible impact of the various backstop proposals but importantly the vital issues not covered by the backstop arrangements.
“This was welcomed by those present, who viewed the engagement as crucial as they prepare their firms for the UK’s exit from the European Union.
“But it was clear from discussions among members, during an in-depth question and answer session, there is a growing sense that time is running out for those involved at the coal-face of negotiations to provide greater clarity on what future trading arrangements will look like and the need to advance the discussion both on other Brexit issues alongside key issues around infrastructure, productivity and skills.”
