Robert discussed that the purpose of the event was to consider the economic implications of Brexit and to discuss Scotland's Place in Europe report, published by the Scottish Government two months prior. Robert invited attendees to explore some of the principal implications for Scotland's economic development community, particularly using Brexit in order to frame EDAS's work agenda in the coming year.

EDAS, like other organisations, has been grappling with the potential outcomes of Brexit for nearly 2 years in the context of our own membership, around the themes of the inclusive and sustainable growth agenda, investment, internationalisation, innovation, knowledge sharing and membership communication.

Sixteen months ago, EDAS held its first Brexit event in the Assembly Rooms - with Minister for UK Negotiations for Scotland's Place in Europe, Michael Russell MSP, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli and Dr Fabian Zuleeg - although highly engaging, there was little in the way of hard facts and sufficient detail.

Robert noted that the Brexit uncertainty is beginning to disperse and Mr Barnier's clock continues to tick. EDAS believes that it is now timely to introduce a series of events based on facts for our members, built around very specific themes relevant to the economic development community.

Robert also discussed the impact on EU funding on economic development and that opportunities are still available once there is more collaboration across partners.

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