RSUA discusses Brexit with Secretary of State

On 13 October 2016, RSUA, as part of a wider delegation from the construction sector, met with James Brokenshire, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, to discuss the challenges and opportunities arising from the UK’s planned departure from the European Union.

The meeting was held at the Keystone Group’s facility in Cookstown and RSUA was represented by Johann Muldoon.

Discussions focused on concerns relating to the implementation of a ‘soft’ border, funding for infrastructure projects and the benefit of migrant labour. The specific needs of architects and the other construction services were highlighted

Johann suggested that the Secretary of State might produce a paper highlighting what steps would be taken to mitigate against the particularly damaging aspects of Brexit on Northern Ireland. She also stressed the need to specifically consider the impact on small businesses in light of the predominance of small businesses inNorthern Ireland.

Other issues raised include changes to procurement after the UK had left the EU.

The Secretary of State made it clear that it was his view that current levels of migration to the UK were unsustainable. He expressed his confidence that a workable border solution would be found and he highlighted that the Chancellor would be using the autumn statement as an opportunity to announce a range of measures which would act an economic stimulus.