Support for Irish Exporters – Minister Peter Burke

"My department has been preparing for tariffs and economic shocks and we are working with our dedicated agency supporting Irish businesses, Enterprise Ireland. We have established a bespoke team which is currently engaging with SMEs, supporting businesses around tariffs and mitigation measures, as well as offering advice and support on diversification measures. One to one meetings have been held with over 300 companies exporting to the US, with further meetings planned. We continue to urge all businesses exporting to the US to engage directly with Enterprise Ireland.

"Enterprise Ireland has 42 overseas offices, with specialist staff in place to grow businesses and explore new opportunities. Market diversification remains a key priority, as it has been for decades, and which has seen significant success. There are 190 overseas market advisers employed by Government through Enterprise Ireland, with 156 of these outside of the US.

"We also have dedicated schemes and grants, including a strategic consultancy grant for expert advice. We have an existing market discovery fund already open which I will top up further when demand is met, and I will be pro-actively engaging with businesses to make them aware of these supports and ensure they are accessed at scale. We have an expansive trade mission programme plan in place. I am conscious that this is an evolving situation which will be closely monitored and Government will not be found wanting when it comes to resourcing and supporting Irish SMEs, which are the backbone of our economy."