Stormont Brexit '˜situation unacceptable' - Chamber of Commerce

Responding to the triggering of Article 50, the Chamber said that Brexit represents the biggest challenge to government in modern times.

George Fleming, Chamber of Commerce president, said: “Scotland and Wales have strong national governments, which are working in the interests of their citizens.

“Northern Ireland is in an even more special position because of our geographical connections with the Republic of Ireland and our strong economic and social links with the Republic of Ireland.

“It is imperative that a solution is reached that allows businesses to continue to operate cross-border, allows for the continuation of the Common Travel Area and that family and personal links that span the two jurisdictions can be maintained without hindrance. Yet despite all those specific circumstances in Northern Ireland, we are the only devolved nation without a government and which is unable to put forward a case on behalf of its people.

“This situation is unacceptable and we urge politicians from all the parties to come together to form a new government and a common position on Brexit. Failure to do so could impose severe penalties on Northern Ireland’s population and its economy.”