Minister of State for Planning and Local Government and Waterford TD John Cummins has welcomed the Government’s decision to oppose the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, describing it as the right outcome for Irish farmers and the agri-food sector.

EU member states gave provisional approval to the trade deal on Friday, January 9th, through a qualified majority vote. Ireland voted against the agreement, alongside France, Poland, Austria and Hungary, while Belgium abstained. The deal still requires approval from the European Parliament before it can come into force.

Speaking following the vote, Minister Cummins said the Government took a clear stand in defence of Irish farming interests.

He said the decision reflected the need to protect Ireland’s agri-food sector and to ensure that EU trade policy aligns with climate commitments, environmental protections and high food safety standards.

Minister Cummins served on Fine Gael’s Programme for Government negotiating team and worked closely with Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon TD on the party’s position on Mercosur. That programme commits the Government to working with like-minded EU countries to oppose the deal in its current form.

He said Fine Gael continues to defend farmers and the world-class standards they uphold, stressing that any trade agreement must be fair, sustainable and compatible with Ireland’s environmental goals. He added that the current Mercosur agreement fails to meet those standards.

Protest

The Government’s position came as thousands of farmers and supporters gathered in Athlone on Friday to protest against the EU-Mercosur trade agreement. The national demonstration moved through the local area before returning to the Technological University of the Shannon’s Midlands campus.

Large crowds filled the International Arena, while speeches were broadcast on screens outside. Members of Waterford IFA attended the protest, including County Chair Mark Connors.

Speaking to WLR, Mr Connors said the event attracted strong support from across the country.

He said organisers estimated that around 1,500 tractors took part and that more than 25,000 people signed a petition opposing the deal. He added that farmers expressed anger towards the EU, describing the situation as hypocritical.

Mr Connors said Irish farmers produce food to exceptionally high standards, while the Mercosur agreement would allow imports that do not meet the same requirements.

Minister Cummins said Ireland’s opposition sends a clear message at EU level that economic opportunity cannot come at the expense of rural livelihoods, food standards or climate responsibility. He said the Government will continue to engage with EU partners to push for stronger safeguards on agricultural imports.

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