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 Sinn Féin MLA Conor Murphy has said questions must be answered as to why Intertrade Ireland could not present their report to the Economy Committee.

The Newry representative, who chairs the Committee, made the comments after the cross border body failed to present to the panel when they met in the city yesterday.

Intertrade was prevented from making their report to the Committee as the Economy Department, headed up by the DUP, would not approve their paper.

“We had a very good meeting in Newry yesterday and I want to thank the Southern Regional College who were excellent hosts,” he said. 

“They also provided an excellent report into the work they do, particularly when it comes to skills and training.

“Clanrye Group also gave an excellent overview into their work in the Social Economy Sector.  Both groups expressed grave concerns over what effect an EU exit will have on their ability to continue the work they are doing. 

“However, Intertrade Ireland were prevented from reporting to the committee when the Economy Department would not approve their paper.

“Cross-border trade is a crucial part of the economy here and many businesses are concerned about what effect an EU exit will have on them.  It is unacceptable that Intertrade were prevented from reporting to us. 

“The Committee has agreed to my proposal to write to the Minister seeking an explanation as to how and why this happened and to protest strongly against this attempt to hinder the Committee’s engagement with a key component of the Economy Department. 

“The Committee is also resolved to hearing from Intertrade as soon as possible once their paper is approved.” 

PICS - Committee at SRC before meeting and being shown around the college