Small local firms in the Shannonside Northern Sound region need more supports in order to be able to open up new markets, especially abroad.
That's according to leading economist and Longford native Gerard Brady.
The chief economist with IBEC says the country faces several challenges in the New Year, including dealing with the continued fall out from Brexit as well as the Covid 19 pandemic.
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He says the export part of the economy is till doing well, but customer-led businesses are facing a tough time, especially hospitality.
He feels that for small firms accessing new markets will be vital:
