Dickson Says Business Recovery Now Key at Annual Business Breakfast

Alliance East Antrim MLA, Stewart Dickson, welcomed the return of the East Antrim Alliance Business Breakfast following a year’s hiatus due to the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Mr Dickson welcomed East Antrim and Northern Ireland business owners, employers and Alliance Party representatives back to the event, which focussed on recovery from the Covid-19 Pandemic, future opportunities for Northern Ireland and the ever-present issue of Brexit and the new arrangements for trade.

Guest speakers at the breakfast were: Neale Richmond TD, who represents the Dublin Rathdown constituency for Fine Gael in the Dáil, Dr Stephen Farry MP former Employment & Learning Minister, and Deputy Leader of the Alliance Party.

The theme of recovery from Covid and Brexit was introduced by Mr Dickson as he emphasised the unprecedented times and trading environment that businesses face. Mr Dickson also noted that there are major opportunities for Northern Ireland, given the new way of doing business, and finding ways to easing post-Brexit trading friction.

Neale Richmond TD, spoke on the need to work with new arrangements, and although they are not as good as being in the EU, it was important that businesses could take up opportunities to maximise East-West and North-South trade. He also expressed optimism regarding the growth of Northern Ireland start-ups, and the potential of the Belfast-Dublin economic corridor.

Alliance Party Deputy Leader, Stephen Farry MP, expressed concerns that the next few months may be difficult for Northern Ireland. However, looking forward Northern Ireland must support businesses, by promoting skills development and research and development, and the right infrastructure.

Dr Farry also noted the Alliance ‘Green New Deal’ and the need to act on tackling the huge threat that climate change poses, but this too represents major opportunities in regards to businesses and jobs for Northern Ireland.