Agri-Food Firms Prepare For Potential No-Deal

Information sessions are being held across Northern Ireland to help agri-food businesses and traders who export or import prepare for a no deal Brexit.

Hosted by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and supported by INVEST NI, HMRC and the Food Standards Agency (FSA), the sessions aim to help firms understand the changes and new regulations they may face after 31 October.

Areas to be covered include:

• Exports and imports

• Export health certificates including live animals and animal products (milk, meat, fish, eggs)

• Plant health

• Environmental management (waste and water)

• Food hygiene, standards, labelling and composition

• Business advice and support on EU exit preparedness

• HMRC

Businesses are urged to register urgently for the workshops, which will take place on the following dates:

• 12 September 2019, Tullyglass Hotel, Ballymena

• 17 September 2019, Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh

• 24 September 2019, Tullyglass Hotel, Ballymena

• 1 October 2019, Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, Craigavon

All sessions will run from 10am to 4pm.

DAERA Director of Brexit Contingency Planning Derek Williamson said: "It is crucial that businesses are prepared for EU Exit, (specifically a 'no deal' exit) on 31 October 2019. There are new rules, processes and requirements that businesses will have to understand if they are to be able to trade with the EU. DAERA is therefore encouraging agri-food businesses to consider attending one of these events.

"The number of places and consultations at each event is limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Consequently, businesses are encouraged to register as soon as possible."

Those wishing to attend should respond by email to EUExit@daera-ni.gov.uk.

Firms who require a 'one to one' consultation with the Department can book this separately by contacting 028 7744 2392.



(JG/MH)