Thousands turnout for anti-Mercosur protest

The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) welcomed the Government’s decision to oppose the agreement, arguing that the safeguards outlined in the proposal fail to guarantee that Brazilian beef would comply with EU standards.

“Our MEPs now face a critical task in forming alliances within their political groups and across member states to resist this deal,” said IFA president Francie Gorman. “The IFA will continue to work closely with our COPA colleagues in the lead-up to the parliamentary vote.”

Independent Ireland organised a major protest in Athlone, Co Westmeath, where dozens of tractors assembled for a rolling demonstration along the M6 motorway, ahead of planned speeches at the Technological University of the Shannon. The event formed part of a nationwide rally, with thousands of farmers mobilising in opposition to the EU–Mercosur agreement.

EU member states have given preliminary approval to the trade deal involving Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, although final ratification by the European Parliament is still required.

Ireland voted against the proposal in its current form, with senior Government figures maintaining that talks remain ongoing.

Beef producers have expressed concern that the agreement could undermine Irish beef exports to European markets due to competition from cheaper Brazilian imports.