Plans to prepare Renfrewshire for the outcome of Brexit negotiations continue to be advanced as the planned withdrawal date approaches.
In a report to the council’s Leadership Board on the impact of a no deal Brexit outcome being reached, councillors were reassured that all risks are being examined and actions prepared to ensure Renfrewshire is prepared for any potential outcome.
Council officers have identified the key areas of risk for Renfrewshire in the event of a no deal Brexit, as relating to contracts for the supply of goods and services, the impact on regulatory services through increased demand and the implications for employees and services with regards to residency and immigration – with the financial implications for the council also being kept under review.
Preparations to mitigate these risks include a weekly meeting, chaired by the Chief Executive, of senior officers from the Council, the Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership and Renfrewshire Leisure, which identifies the national and local issues in relation to Brexit and creates an action plan for each potential outcome to guide Renfrewshire’s response.
Officers have been in regular dialogue with elected members to provide updates on arising issues such as EU funding or potential effects on the economy, with the focus now on the possibility of a no deal.
The council is also utilising strong relationships with key partners to plan for all possible outcomes of the negotiations and ensure Renfrewshire is prepared to implement the necessary actions immediately, as required.
Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson said: “We want to assure all our residents that we are using all the information currently available to prepare effectively and we will be ready to act whatever the final outcome of the Brexit negotiations.
“Senior officers are working closely with key partners to prepare for all scenarios and minimise any impacts.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and assess any developments for impact on either our staff and their families, our local businesses or for communities across Renfrewshire.”
Officers will continue to meet regularly to ensure that any developing issues or decisions are addressed, and a further report will be brought to the next meeting of the Leadership Board.
For more information, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/brexit-information.