Protesting farmers in Athy, Co Kildare, in February 2024 showing solidarity with EU-wide protests over the EU-Mercosur trade deal. Irish farmers are opposed to the trade deal, fearing Argentinian beef could undercut the demand for Irish beef elsewhere in Europe. France had been leading the effort to kill the trade deal amid pressure from its farming lobby and left-wing opposition parties. The commission has set out new measures to safeguard European farmers in a bid to alleviate concerns about the deal. The Irish Farmers’ Association said the Government must not “renege” on election promises to oppose the trade deal.

Source: The Irish Times September 03, 2025 22:01 UTC