'˜Clear concerns' among businesses over Brexit

Ms. Anderson was speaking after meeting with members of the Junior Chamber of Commerce in Derry at the weekend.

She said it was clear there were now growing concerns over the impact Brexit would have locally in light of recent developments and the lack of clarity on the way forward.

Ms. Anderson said: “Theresa May and her government don’t have a plan, pathway or clue what they are doing and appear to be making it up as they go along, preferring slogans rather than strategy.

“None of this is helping the business community, particularly young entrepreneurs who are keen to avail of the opportunities being in the EU and access to EU markets brings.”

She added that in the midst of all the uncertainty, one thing is certain; the majority of people in the north voted to remain in the EU.

“That must be respected,” she warned.

“The British and Irish Governments, together with wider civic society, should now work to secure designated special status for the north within the European Union to continue to support our business sector and provide a better future for young people.”

Meanwhile, locally based authorities in Derry and Donegal have vowed to press ahead with their own joint plans to develop the region ahead of Article 50 being triggered.

The newly established North West Strategic Growth Partnership - unveiled at a conference in Burt last week- will take forward the plans.

Senior government officials from north and south have now been briefed about the importance of a joint approach to successfully drive forward the strategic priorities for the North West City region.