Sinn Féin’s Chris Hazzard, has today said the upcoming election is a chance to reject the ‘profound economic damage’ posed by Brexit.

Sinn Féin’s South Down general election candidate was speaking following the annual Agenda NI Economic Conference, being held this year in the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle.

Chris Hazzard said:

“In whatever form it takes, it is clear Brexit will have a sharply negative impact on the all-Ireland economy, and particularly for the north of Ireland.

“Jobs, livelihoods, and whole communities along the border risk severe economic damage as a result of Brexit.

“This is especially true here in South Down, where large parts of our local economy play a key role in the all-Ireland supply chain and therefore they are at severe risk.

“In recent days I’ve met with small farmers, our local agri-food industry, and many local businesses who all feel extremely vulnerable to the DUP-Tory Brexit.

“Sinn Féin MPs have for been working to secure special status that would minimise Brexit disruption for the local economy in South Down.

“The coming election is an opportunity for voters to re-elect a Sinn Féin MP in South Down dedicating to upholding the economic interests of families and communities in this border constituency.”