Challenge for Irish business negotiating new trading arrangements during Brexit negotiations

The way in which the UK leaves the EU and on what terms is critical for jobs and investment in Ireland, writes John Whelan.

In the much heralded speech last week, UK prime minister Theresa May confirmed she would after all be seeking the UK’s full withdrawal from the EU, its single market and customs union.

The uncertainty — and the prospect of trade with the EU becoming subject to tariffs and other trade barriers — was not ameliorated, and confirmed the stark warning from Carolyn Fairbairn, head of the Confederation of British Industry.