All-island approach needed to protect jobs and businesses in wake of US Tariffs – Rose Conway-Walsh TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Rose Conway-Walsh TD has urged the maximum level of engagement between the Irish government and the Executive in the wake of the imposition of US tariffs.

Teachta Conway-Walsh said:

“It is essential that the Irish government works hand in glove with the Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald and others in the Northern Executive to ensure our all-island economy is protected.

“The possibility of a differentiation in tariffs on the island further compounds the threat to our national economy and clarity is required regarding the implications of the tariffs in the north under the terms of the Windsor Framework.

“Our island economy is inextricably linked in sectors such as agriculture, tourism and across supply chains. During the Brexit negotiations the Irish government helped ensure there was no hard border on the island of Ireland. The same diligence must be applied in this scenario in order to protect the prosperity of everyone on our island.

“Now is the time for a calm approach from the Irish government and for the maximum amount of engagement to take place on a north south basis and by the Irish government with the EU and US to ensure the best possible outcome for Irish businesses.

“It is widely acknowledged that US tariffs will damage the Irish economy, however counter tariffs from EU could also push up prices for Irish consumers and risk jobs so at this juncture I am calling for a measured approach from the Irish government aimed at de-escalating the situation rather than rushing headlong into the introduction of counter tariffs.

“Ireland is uniquely exposed to changes in US economic policy due to our high number of exporting businesses and the historic failure of Irish governments to invest in critical infrastructure such as water, housing and energy supply. It’s now more important than ever that the government addresses this under-investment to increase our global competitiveness.

“The government needs to stand up for Ireland in the US and in the EU to provide stability and reassurance that there will be as little upheaval as possible for businesses and trade on our island and across the globe and Irish jobs must be protected.

“Banks and financial intuitions have a key role to play in ensuring the sustainability of Irish businesses, they have a responsibility to do everything possible to ensure enterprises continue to thrive during this time of uncertainty.

“There is positivity this morning that the Irish Pharma industry and semi conductors have not been listed by President Trump for tariffs to date, and Sinn Féin will do everything we can to ensure these industries are supported and developed into the future.”