Senator Collins Voices Strong Opposition to Mercosur Agreement at Newcastle West Meeting

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Senator Collins Voices Strong Opposition to Mercosur Agreement at Newcastle West Meeting

In a recent meeting held in Newcastle West, Senator Collins expressed strong opposition to the Mercosur agreement, emphasizing the concerns of Irish farmers. He stated that agriculture is essential to the rural economy and has raised alarm over the potential long-term repercussions of the trade deal.

Farmers Concerned Over Mercosur Agreement

Senator Collins highlighted the urgent need for the government to clarify its position on the EU trade agreement. He noted that many farmers fear for the future of their family farms and local communities. “The contributions we heard tonight underscore the depth of concern across the sector,” Collins stated. He believes that the risks to food standards, livelihoods, and the broader rural economy are significant.

Concerns Shared by Agricultural Leaders

At the gathering, various representatives from organizations such as the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), Macra na Feirme, and the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association (ICSA) shared their insights. They collectively voiced worries about the implications of Mercosur on Irish agriculture.

Food Safety Standards: Concerns regarding the import of beef from Brazil have grown, particularly following revelations about illegal antibiotics and growth hormones in production.
Opposing Voices: Hungary has publicly announced its opposition to the Mercosur deal, raising questions about Ireland’s stance.
Political Responsibility: Sinn Féin’s agriculture spokesperson, Martin Kenny TD, called on the government to make its position clear, especially given that other EU countries like France and Poland have also expressed dissent.

Kenny remarked, “The deal is the deal—it’s not going to change—and we know it’s bad for farmers, consumers, and the environment.” Sinn Féin has committed to ongoing engagement with farming groups and rural communities, focusing on these pressing concerns as discussions about the agreement continue.

Next Steps for the Irish Government

As the EU Council meeting approaches, the pressure mounts for the Irish government to take a definitive stance. Farmers across Ireland remain anxious about the implications of the Mercosur agreement, calling for transparency and action from their representatives.