The IEA, the export industry organisation, stated today 11th February that the industrial campaign of disruption in the public service, which affected Dublin port today, would, if allowed to continue, do lasting damage to Irish exporters' reputation in international markets.

Today the Revenue, Customs Division of the Civil and Public Services Union, took action to close down the outstation Customs offices in Dublin Port from 8am to 11am. This is one of the busiest times for export clearance activity.

We have been advised by Revenue that this type of action is likely to be repeated on an on-going basis, in different ports affecting both sea and air shipments.

John Whelan, CEO of the Irish Exporters Association stated:

"Exporters are battling to retain their foreign customers in a climate of very tough price competition. Any disruption to delivery schedules is likely to lead to lost business."

He went on to say:

"Disruption of essential public sector services is unacceptable at any time, but in the current climate it is suicidal, putting export orders at risk, damaging job prospects, and ultimately reducing the income to the public sector."

He concluded by calling on the Government to move swiftly to prevent any further unofficial action in the Public Sector servicing export industry.

End

For further information contact:

John Whelan, Chief Executive, Irish Exporters Association

Mobile: 087 9271243 Email: jfwhelan@irishexporters.ie

About the Irish Exporters Association (IEA)

The IEA represents the needs of export industry ensuring that the necessary conditions are created and the necessary support is provided to assist companies to maximize their export sales. The IEA draws its membership from every exporting sector, ensuring that the interests of all industries are represented and promoted at the highest level.

http://www.irishexporters.ie/