More than 500 representatives from businesses involved in the agri-food sector, tourism and export businesses attended a 'Getting Ireland Brexit ready' workshop in Cork.
Tánaiste Simon Coveney told attendees that Ireland would never sign up to a treaty that would see a physical border re-emerge on the island of Ireland.
Mr Coveney said such a treaty would have a corrosive effect on trade on the island and on the Good Friday Agreement.
He believes a no-deal Brexit is very unlikely because of the negativity of all other options.
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There are 38,000 Irish companies doing business with the UK every week and Brexit will have a major impact on their business, particularly on the agri-food business and on tourism.
Twelve Irish State companies gathered at the roadshow to advise of supports available, including financial supports of up to €5,000 to allow them put Brexit-proof plans in place.
Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed said 40% of Ireland’s agri-food product was exported to the UK and this industry would incur extra costs with supply chain issues.
However, the minister said even a good deal on Brexit was still not as good as the trade relationship we have now with the UK.
He said that companies, particularly those involved in the perishable food industry, need to invest in diversifying markets and try to lessen their exposure.
