That’s according to Cavan County Council, which has been assessing the impact the UK’s departure from the EU could have on the border county. From the smuggling of fuel, including smoky coal, to traffic delays leading into Fermanagh, to concerns over drinking water from Lough MacNean, the Council has been exploring the consequences of a ‘no deal.’

Internal documents seen by the Anglo Celt newspaper show Cavan Council believe there will be “a potential for an increase in cross-border smuggling of waste” if there is a crash out, leading to a surge in illegal dumping. 

Among the wide ranging implications and potential implications, the communications show a no-deal could stunt the ongoing development of the Geopark, which crosses the border into Cavan, as an internationally renowned tourist attractions. 

The documents also highlight concerns over northern contractors being able to meet their tenders when working on Cavan roads, which could impact on the condition of the 16 official crossings between Fermanagh and Cavan. 

Other concerns raised in the report included a negative effect on the close cooperation between fire fighting services on both sides of the border, as well as the overall impact Brexit will have on border economies.