Dear Member, 

Welcome to this edition of the SFA e-zine.

In this edition we take a closure look at moving goods, to, through or from Northern Ireland, as we continue to ready small firms ahead of the end of the transition period on 31 December 2020.

Read about new research on the importance of investment in 5G technology which highlights two thirds (64%) of Irish SMEs believe effective 5G investment will be important to Ireland’s economic recovery.

Our HR article looks at the lawful process of changing contractual terms and conditions. You can also read the recent Workplace Relations Commission report on the importance of having a retirement age and clear and consistent policy in place. 

We are inviting business owners to take part in UCDs "Coping with COVID-19: Exploring Resilience Strategies of Irish Entrepreneurs" research report.

Finally, remember that you do not need to face your business challenges alone - prepare your business for the new year by applying for MentorsWork and get your very own mentor for free. Also, be sure to book on to one of our upcoming webinars, including the SFA Annual General Meeting taking place on 25 November, and check out our most recent press coverage. 

As always, we’d love to hear from you about any queries you may have, issues you wish to have raised with Government or other stakeholders and your ideas on how we can improve the business environment for us all. Please contact me on tel: 01 605 1602 or e-mail: sven@sfa.ie or tweet: @SFA_Irl or visit our website.

Kind regards, 

Sven Spollen-Behrens

SFA Director