Dublin, Ireland, 12^th. September 2019 With just 7 weeks to go until the UK leaves the European Union, Heather Humphreys T.D, Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation has started the process of directly contacting over 220,000 companies through the Companies Registration Office highlighting the need to take urgent action now to protect their businesses against the risks posed by Brexit.

With the increasing risk of a no-deal Brexit, the Minister instructed her Department to undertake this outreach to inform companies of the array of supports available to assist them with preparations. As part of the exercise, the Department will also be advertising its supports on various websites, including CRO.ie and RBO.gov.ie, which will experience heavy traffic from companies over the coming months.

This is the latest step in an intensive whole-of-Government approach to Brexit communications, ensuring that business and citizens are as informed and prepared as possible.

Minister Humphreys said: “Regardless the way in which the UK ultimately leaves the EU, Brexit will change the way we do business and we need to be prepared. While the Government is still hopeful that a deal can be reached, we cannot afford to take any risks and must continue to prepare for the worst. Unfortunately, as 31^st October draws closer, the more likely a no-deal Brexit is becoming. Against this backdrop of uncertainty, it is essential that businesses act now to prepare.”

The Minister continued: “My Department and its Agencies have developed a suite of supports to help businesses with their preparations. I would urge all companies to visit www.gov.ie/brexit to find out more. The Government stands ready to provide every assistance possible.”

She concluded: “While the Government can assist in supporting businesses in the face of a hard Brexit, businesses must, of course, also prepare themselves despite what I know to be very difficult circumstances.”

In particular, the Minister drew attention to the ‘Getting your Business Brexit Ready – Practical Steps’ booklet. The booklet outlines the following 9 key steps that businesses – large and small – should consider now to make sure they are fully prepared for a no-deal Brexit. The Guide is available at www.gov.ie/brexit.