Tipperary TD calls for Ireland to veto Mercosur trade deal

Independent TD Mattie McGrath has today called on the Irish government to veto the proposed EU-Mercosur trade deal, citing significant concerns over its impact on Irish agriculture, environmental standards, and rural communities.

"The Mercosur trade deal poses a direct threat to the livelihoods of Irish farmers and the integrity of our agricultural sector," said Deputy McGrath. "Allowing the import of 99,000 tonnes of beef and 180,000 tonnes of poultry meat from South America at reduced tariffs will undermine our local producers who adhere to the highest standards of quality and sustainability."

Deputy McGrath highlighted the widespread opposition to the deal among farming and environmental groups across Europe. "Farmers in France, Poland, and other EU countries have staged large-scale protests against this deal. They are rightly concerned about the lower standards and traceability of Brazilian beef, including the use of hormones and the ongoing deforestation of the Amazon."

READ NEXT: Tipp TD part of newly formed 'Regional Group' considering Government formation talks

A recent EU audit revealed that Brazilian authorities cannot guarantee that their beef exports to the EU are free from banned substances like '17β-oestradiol'. This raises serious questions about the safety and integrity of the products that would enter the European market under the Mercosur deal.

"At a time when Irish beef farmers are already struggling with low market returns, the Mercosur deal threatens to further depress prices and make it even harder for them to sustain their operations," Deputy McGrath continued. "We must stand with our farmers and ensure that their hard work and commitment to high standards are not undermined by unfair competition."

Deputy McGrath also pointed to the environmental hypocrisy of the deal. "The EU is pushing for stricter environmental regulations and reduced pesticide use within its borders, yet it is willing to import products from countries with far less stringent standards. This is not only unfair but also counterproductive to our climate goals."

Considering these concerns, Deputy McGrath is urging the Irish government to join forces with other EU member states, such as France, to form a blocking minority against the Mercosur deal. "We have a responsibility to protect our farmers, our environment, and our rural communities. I call on the government to veto this deal and stand up for Ireland's interests at the EU level."

Deputy McGrath emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the outgoing government and the new administration must take a strong stand. "The sooner a new government is formed, the better equipped we will be to address this critical issue. We need decisive action now to ensure that Ireland's voice is heard loud and clear in Brussels."

READ NEXT: Tipperary teaching graduates receive top awards