There was an emergency briefing in Leinster House today with representatives from key farming
organisations, including the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association, and the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association, to discuss the proposed Mercosur trade deal, which could be signed before Christmas.
Senator O’Reilly said, “This deal threatens the very future of Irish farming. The volume of poultry and beef being proposed will flood the market and devastate farmers who have already endured enormous challenges. It is unacceptable that safeguards are weak, unenforceable, and fail to protect our environment, animal welfare, and market. Sarah Hanley of the IFA put it best when she said that these safeguards are merely a prompt to bring this deal to a close.”
Speakers at the briefing stressed the devastating effect the deal could have on Irish beef farmers. Brazilian beef is currently 50% cheaper than Irish beef due to lower quality, and independent analysis indicates a potential €800–850 million hit to the EU beef market.
Sean McNamara, President of the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association, said that although the government has made some noise in Brussels, little has been achieved, and the government should have taken the lead by forming a coalition of other EU countries to defend Irish interests. He warned that beef prices could fall by as much as 45% within five years of Mercosur being implemented, without any intervention from the EU.
Senator O’Reilly emphasised, “Regardless of any proposed safeguards, Irish farmers reject this deal. It removes the role of our government in protecting our own people, our markets, and our environment. We must fight for the future of Irish farming and stand up for the global reputation of our agri-food sector. It seems ludicrous to hold farmers to strict climate stipulations while the EU endorses a trade deal that will lead to further deforestation in Mercosur countries.”
The briefing also addressed issues of traceability and food safety, with concerns about Brazil’s lack of cattle tagging and enforcement of health and safety standards. With mixed messages coming from government sources, stakeholders stressed the urgent need for Ireland to build alliances with other EU countries, particularly France, to defend national interests.
Senator O’Reilly concluded, “Ireland is the largest exporter of beef in the EU, and we cannot allow a trade deal that undermines our farmers and our standards. This deal must be rejected in its current form and I hope the Government comes out strongly against it and quits the double speak they’ve been engaged in.”
