Ireland will vote against the EU-Mercosur trade agreement in its current form, the Tánaiste Simon Harris has confirmed, saying the deal does not adequately address Irish concerns.
The European Union is due to vote on the agreement this Friday, with member states asked to approve a trade deal involving Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Concerns of Farmers and Consumers Central
He said Irish farmers and consumers hold strong views on the agreement, particularly around food standards, environmental protections, and fairness.
“It is now clear that the agreement, even with additional safeguards, is not adequate,” he said. “Parity simply would not exist under the Mercosur agreement.”
Government Engagement at EU Level
The Tánaiste said the Government engaged closely with like-minded EU countries that share Ireland’s concerns.
Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon met with his French and Italian counterparts in Brussels this week during a special meeting of EU agriculture ministers. Discussions focused on Mercosur, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and regulatory simplification.
Opposition from Farming Groups and Political Divisions
The EU-Mercosur deal has faced strong opposition from the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA). It has also caused divisions within the Government, including among independents who supported the coalition.
The Government’s decision not to support the deal was welcomed by the IFA, the Labour Party, and Independent Ireland.
Vote Not the Final Step
Despite reports that the deal may still pass at the European Council level, Simon Harris stressed that the process is not over.
He said the agreement would also require approval from the European Parliament.
“Tomorrow is not the end of the matter,” he said. “MEPs across the EU, including Irish MEPs, will still have their say.”
He confirmed discussions had already taken place with Fine Gael MEPs on how to strengthen safeguards if the deal progresses.
Ireland’s Position in the EU
Addressing concerns about Ireland’s stance within the EU, Mr Harris said national priorities must be respected.
“Ireland values trade and free trade,” he said. “However, we must also stand by our word when legitimate concerns cannot be addressed.”
Sinn Féin Criticism
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald criticised the Government, accusing it of failing to protect Ireland’s interests.
She said the Government had multiple opportunities to stop the deal earlier in the process.
“Mercosur is disastrous for Irish farming, food safety, and the environment,” she said. “The fight goes on.”
Ms McDonald confirmed Sinn Féin will bring a motion to the Dáil next week challenging the Government’s handling of the issue.
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