Irish bosses appear split over the impact that any potential UK referendum on EU membership may have on economic recovery in Great Britain, according to a new survey by Close Brothers Commercial Finance. Almost a third (31pc) of SMEs in Ireland are concerned that an EU referendum will challenge economic recovery in the UK while a quarter don't believe it will have any impact on their recovery. Over two fifths are unsure about what impact it may have. Of those that are worried about its impact, two fifths (42pc) of Irish firms are worried that it will cause uncertainty among inward investors, over a quarter claim it will cause them to delay on investment decisions for their business and a further 29pc are concerned that it could raise doubts about their foreign customers continuing to work with them. The findings come from the latest Close Brothers Business Barometer, a quarterly survey that canvasses the opinion of SME owners and senior management across Ireland and the UK. Head of Sales (asset finance) of Close Brothers Commercial Finance, Adrian Madden, said: "It appears that Irish firms are split over the prospect of a referendum on EU membership in the UK. "Ireland has a significant economic relationship with the UK, based on a complex web of commercial, institutional and transport connections. The UK is Ireland's largest export recipient and in turn, Ireland is the fifth largest destination for UK exports". "As such, it is understandable that some firms are feeling anxious about the prospect and what impact it may have on their business, however, it is important to keep in mind that this potential referendum is still more than two years away and in the meantime we must continue to focus on strengthening our trade links and further encouraging the Irish export market both with regards to the UK and further afield." Mr Madden continued: "At present, Ireland and Britain trade over €1 billion worth of goods and services every week and we hope that the prospect of a referendum on UK membership of the EU will not impact the ongoing economic relationship." For more visit www.businessworld.ie