Thousands of farmers from across Ireland turned out to protest the EU-Mercosur trade deal in Athlone. Video: Enda O'DowdThousands of people attended a protest in Athlone, Co Westmeath, on Saturday against the EU-Mercosur trade deal. Paddy Buggy, a beef farmer and Fine Gael councillor in Portlaoise, Co Laois, said the agreement would allow “poor quality beef into the EU”. Photograph: Enda O’DowdThe protest, organised by Independent Ireland, was attended by politicians and farming organisations. Photograph: Enda O’DowdRosemary Moran, a dairy farmer from Glasson, Co Westmeath, said the Mercosur deal proved many politicians “don’t care” about farmers.

Source: The Irish Times January 10, 2026 16:58 UTC