Until recently, opponents of the deal had harboured some hope of assembling a blocking minority under EU rules. Against that backdrop, it appeared earlier this week that the Irish Government might also soften its stance. Suggestions that the Government might fall over the issue were exaggerated, but the episode underlines how this administration ignores sentiment in rural Ireland at its peril. It will offer Mercosur countries improved access to the EU market for agricultural exports, giving European consumers greater choice and, potentially, lower prices. Critics also warn of uneven gains, with large agribusinesses and multinationals benefiting at the expense of smaller farmers and workers.

Source: The Irish Times January 09, 2026 01:02 UTC