Irish Farmers Protest EU Mercosur Trade Deal

Thousands of Irish farmers protested in Athlone against the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, which received provisional approval from EU member states. The deal, aimed at creating a large free-trade area, raises concerns among farmers about increased competition from low-cost South American imports, particularly beef. Protesters emphasized the potential negative impact on rural livelihoods and food quality, with the Irish Farmers’ Association pledging to fight the agreement in the European Parliament. Farmers fear that the deal undermines EU standards and their sustainable income.

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