“Mother of battles” awaits claims Irish MEP over controversial trade dealUp to 10,000 farmers and protestors are set to press ahead with a rally tomorrow (Saturday) in Athlone in opposition to European member states approving the contentious EU-Mercosur trade agreement. A total of 20 out of 27 member states endorsed the accord which has been a long-running source of friction for Irish farming groups over fears linked to an influx of cheap South American beef imports and its consequential impact on a still pressurised domestic sector at home.

Source: Irish Independent January 09, 2026 18:30 UTC