The association is encouraging farmers to attend this Saturday's national protest in Athlone in opposition to the trade deal. IFA urges farmers to attend major Mercosur protest in AthloneThe Irish Farmers Association (IFA) is encouraging farmers to take part in this Saturday's major national protest rally in Athlone in opposition to the EU's proposed Mercosur trade deal with countries in South America. He said there was "huge pressure" from the European Commission and certain Member States to ratify the Mercosur deal as soon as next week. Athlone Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan encouraged local communities to support Saturday's national protest rally. * For more details on Saturday's protest, see this week's Westmeath Independent and Offaly Independent

Source: Irish Independent January 06, 2026 13:05 UTC