Several leaders of big maritime companies and ports have submitted an article regarding the Brexit. Familiar name is Jean-Marc Roué, big boss of Brittany Ferries.Other co-authors are representing the Port of Cherborg, Port of Caen, Port of Le Havre, Chamber of Commerce of Normandie, etc.
“France, stop dreaming!” is the urgent request from the industry leaders. “Don’t see Brexit as an opportunity!” Indeed it seems that Paris is looking with envy at London’s position as financial heart, and the hope is that after Brexit Paris can get a piece of this cake.
The leaders write that a hard, no-deal Brexit, would hit the regions facing the Channel.
Until now, freedom of movement of goods and people have created a healthy regional economy. The Brexit is a threat to everything that has been acquired.
The leaders ask that the French State helps them to put as fast as possible the necessary infrastructure in place, without the usual substantial administrative procedures. There is no time to lose. Ferry operators and ports need to be able to adapt the ports for making a smooth transportation flux possible, since the UNited Kingdom will become a non-EU country.