Minister for Agriculture and Kildare South TD, Martin Heydon, who said that the Irish government and EU will ensure safeguards are in place for farmers and consumers
The European Union has approved the Mercosur trade deal.
A majority of member states confirmed they would back the agreement in Brussels today, with Ireland and France among the countries which opposed it.
It aims to increase trade opportunities with countries in South America.
Farmers here are opposed to the deal, raising concerns over the standard of beef which will be imported as a result.
The agreement will now need to be ratified by MEPs in the European Parliament.
The Irish Farmer's Association said it will intensify its lobbying campaign to stop its progress through the European Parliament.
Speaking on this morning's Kildare Today, IFA President Francie Gorman said that they have no faith that the spot audits coming into Europe will be sufficient to ensure the safety of consumers of beef and poultry in Ireland:
Also speaking on the show was Minister for Agriculture and Kildare South TD, Martin Heydon, who said that the Irish government and EU will ensure safeguards are in place for farmers and consumers:
Families Could Face €1,000 Rise In Annual Food Bills Amid Farming Crisis
Over Half of Cigarette Packs Surveyed In Newbridge And Naas Had No Irish Duty Paid
Celbridge Brewery CEO Warns Of Mounting Costs Facing Craft Beer Sector
Amhrán na Laoch Songwriting Competition Confirmed for Irish Music Month 2026
Government Announces Major Overhaul of Anti-Money Laundering Rules
Maynooth University Hosts Special Solar Eclipse Event This Evening
Johnstown Mother Says Today's Solar Eclipse Means Something Extra Special For Her And Her Son
Three Men Detained In Kildare And Dublin Garda Stations Following Brothel Keeping And Organised Prostitution Arrests
