Speaking after the online conference the Minister said, “We must do all we can to be ready for the end of the year but also be ready to respond to emerging issues that arise from January 2021.
“I realise that many businesses are facing difficulties due to the ongoing talks between the EU and the UK.
“We do need clarity on a number of issues including most importantly the terms of trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
“It is my hope that both our national government and the EU would recognise the need for flexibility in the coming months.
“I am also calling for a grace period for Northern Ireland businesses at the end of the transition period as a common sense and fair approach to the changing trading circumstances.”