Taoiseach Micheál Martin, pictured during his visit to China, 'still has concerns' over Mercosur dealMinister for Agriculture Martin Heydon has said he continues to hold negative views on the contentious Mercosur trade deal between the EU and a group of South American countries. Earlier on Wednesday, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said “a lot of progress has been made” on the deal, potentially signalling a softening of Ireland’s opposition. This would mean Ireland’s vote against the deal would be symbolic – but some within the Government are also wary of burning political capital in Brussels with such a step. He indicated that any decision on Ireland’s vote would be made following a Cabinet meeting, although no in-person meeting is scheduled this week. It said the Government “must hold firm on its commitment in the programme for government and vote no to Mercosur”.

Source: The Irish Times January 07, 2026 13:34 UTC