Ulster Unionist Party Finance spokesperson, Philip Smith MLA, has said that the First and deputy First Ministers must urgently provide leadership in the aftermath of the EU referendum.

Philip Smith MLA said:

“Northern Ireland needs to hear from the First Minister and deputy First Minister on how they propose to protect our businesses and finances.  We need leadership, we need confidence building measures and we need communication.  That is what local business leaders are telling me in the aftermath of the EU referendum result.

“Successful companies like Willowbrook Foods in my own Strangford constituency are crying out for communication and reassurance from the Northern Ireland Executive.  They want to know how Brexit will affect their workforce, their access to key markets and company profitability.  They want engagement from Government and they want to feel confident that Ministers are working hard to protect our economy and mitigate against the potential impact of Brexit.

“We also need to provide reassurance to EU nationals who play a critical role in so many of our most successful businesses and in the agri-food sector in particular.  I met with a cross section of managers at Willowbrook Foods this morning.  Of the 19 managers at the meeting 11 were originally from other EU countries.  What struck me was that on average they had worked at Willowbrook for 8 years with many working their way up from the factory floor.  Each plays a key role in the company’s success but they have also grown roots in Northern Ireland.  Many have married, bought houses and are raising their families in Northern Ireland.

“They are more than economic migrants, they are new Northern Irish and they are now unsure of their futures. 

“Whatever the final outcome of the EU negotiations our people and companies need reassurance, communication and leadership now.  Sadly, the NI Executive has failed to provide this to date. I call for an immediate statement from the First & deputy First Ministers to reassure our business community.”