The UK free trade deal with Australia - the first since Brexit - which is expected to pose a threat to Ireland and EU exporters has moved a step closer to completion after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson agreed the broad terms of the deal this morning. The Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) president, Tim Cullinan said the deal “sets a perilous precedent” and highlights the vulnerable position that Irish beef farmers now find themselves in. “Apart from the extra checks that will apply following the trade agreement, the threat to our markets is the biggest fallout for Irish farmers from the vote nearly five years ago,” he added. “Trade deals between the UK and third countries have the potential to undermine what is a very important market for our beef exports. Ms Truss also pointed out that beef from hormone-injected cattle will remain banned in the new Australia deal and highlighted how Australian lamb coming into the UK is currently more expensive than UK lamb.

Source: Irish Examiner June 15, 2021 11:00 UTC