InterTradeIreland launched the first in a series of cross-border trade events in Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise on Tuesday 17th October 2023. With a focus on cross-border regulation and employment, the event provided an interactive forum to help businesses get the answers they need to support future cross-border trade under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement and the Windsor Framework.
Speaking about the event, Colin McCabrey, InterTradeIreland’s Director of Trade, commented,
Cross-Border Trade is going from strength to strength and our research shows that three quarters of businesses who sell cross-border go on to sell off-island – it’s a stepping stone to global export markets. Whatever challenges businesses might face when trying to trade cross-border, InterTradeIreland will be with them every step of the way - and that’s why we’re delighted to be delivering more in-person cross-border trade events.
In Portlaoise, InterTradeIreland shared the latest information, advice and funded support available through their new Cross-Border Trade Hub, which provides free access to specialist technical support regarding trade matters, saving businesses both time and money.
A line-up of expert speakers were also on-hand to share the latest regulatory and employment rules for businesses trading across the border and to advise on practical tips to easily navigate the new trading conditions in the cross-border market.
Robin Byrne, Head of UK Office at the National Standards Authority of Ireland, opened discussions by sharing an overview of CE marking regulation and the technical aspects businesses need to consider. This was followed by legal guidance from both Rosemary Connolly, Rosemary Connolly Solicitors and Paul McMahon, McMahon Legal Solicitors, highlighting the key differences in employment law between both jurisdictions as well as the need for businesses to be aware of the risk of regulatory divergence in the future.
Attendees also heard from Lorraine O’Malley from the Cross Border Partnership for Employment Services who profiled the various sources of support available to businesses in the area of cross-border employment.
Local business Ballymooney Foods also participated and their Financial Controller, Catherine Nolan, shared hands-on experience of export success in the cross-border market, the benefits associated with trading across the border and lessons learned along the way.
The next regional event shines the spotlight on customs and VAT and takes place in Ebrington Hotel, Derry-Londonderry on Wednesday 22nd November 2023. Secure your free place today.
