Brexit Will Have Catastrophic Impact On Rural Communities - Sinn Fein

A Sinn Fein MLA has said the DUP's Brexit agenda faces considerable opposition in rural communities due to its potential financial impact, and called on Arlene Foster's party to listen to the people of Northern Ireland.

Jemma Dolan was speaking after attending the 'Brexit: Your Future?' event in Enniskillen on Thursday 29 November, hosted by Martina Anderson MEP and Michelle Gildernew MP.

"The turnout at the Brexit conference in Enniskillen is testimony to the concerns of border communities now that Brexit is four months away," the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA said.

"We heard directly the concerns of local businesses, farmers and education workers about the impacts Brexit will have on the economy and jobs. 

"There is huge concern at the potential loss of over £21 million in EU funding and the impact to the current 469 students and 22 staff traveling from the south to South West College. 

"Farming and rural communities will suffer the catastrophic effects of Brexit. A staggering 93 per cent of the income generated by farmers and agri-food producers comes from the European Union."

Miss Dolan urged the Democratic Unionists to heed the public's concerns, considering the cross-community majority that voted remain in the June 2016 referendum.

"There is no good to come from Brexit - the Withdrawal Agreement is the least worst option available to prevent a hard border on this island. Political Unionism must accept the wishes of a majority who wish to remain within the EU. 

"The four pro-remain parties in the North represent the majority in our determination to prevent a hard border and protect jobs, investment and households from disaster. The backstop remains the bottom line."



(JG/CM)