Sinn Féin has called for urgent measures to protect local manufacturers following the introduction of new steel tariffs, warning that continued uncertainty could affect jobs and investment across the sector.

Mid Ulster MP Cathal Mallaghan raised concerns over the potential impact of the changes on businesses in Northern Ireland, particularly manufacturers that rely heavily on stable steel supply chains and predictable costs.

The MP said he had sought clarification from the British Government on how the new arrangements could affect industry in the region, while stressing that businesses require greater certainty to continue operating competitively.

Mallaghan pointed to Mid Ulster's manufacturing sector as a key economic driver, highlighting the area's strength in specialist industries such as mobile crushing and screening, which support significant employment and export activity.

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Speaking on the issue, he said: "I listened to the concerns being raised by local businesses and acted by writing directly to the British Government seeking clarification on the impact these steel tariff changes could have on industry in the north.

"While I welcome the confirmation of transitional arrangements and the commitment to ongoing engagement, the reality is that businesses still do not have the certainty they need.

"Mid Ulster is home to globally recognised manufacturing clusters, particularly in the mobile crushing and screening sector, which support thousands of jobs and compete successfully in international markets.

"Those businesses need clarity and stability to continue investing, growing and competing. Ongoing uncertainty around steel costs and supply chains risks undermining that competitiveness.

"I will continue to work with Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald to ensure the concerns of local manufacturers are heard and to press for practical solutions that protect jobs, investment and our manufacturing base.

"The British Government and the EU must work together to provide the certainty industry needs and ensure businesses here are not placed at a disadvantage."