DMcG,
We chose to leave; we have a responsibility to help find a solution"

We have. Exempt small firms trading across the border from any tariffs, and collect all taxes and duties electronically as is being done now.

The trade is mostly into the North so the Republic would benefit.
There is no need for a hard border but EU still threatens to impose one, presumably just to punish us.

If it was up to the Republic there would be no problem, but they can not act independently because of their membership.
We will be free to leave our side completely open.

If they give us a free trade deal, there is no issue anyway.
A free trade deal would benefit everyone but again, we must be punished whatever the cost.