Independent Ireland TD Michael Fitzmaurice (centre) is pictured with political party colleagues Ken O'Flynn (left) and Richard O'Donighue (right) at the EU-Mercosur national protest rally in AthloneNational protest rally hears united 'No to Mercosur' pleaA rousing version of 'Ireland's Call' brought proceedings to a close at the national protest rally against Mercosur in TUS international arena this afternoon (Saturday). Hundreds of tractors and trucks converged on Athlone throughout the morning ahead of a number of speeches at the event which was organised by Independent Ireland. Speaking at the rally, Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly said that "as a nation, Ireland must say 'No to Mercosur'". Concluding proceedings, Independent Ireland TD Michael Fitzmaurice said the national protest rally was "all about the farmers". *A more in-depth report of the EU-Mercosur national protest rally will appear in next week's print editions.

Source: Irish Independent January 10, 2026 17:38 UTC