Independent Ireland welcomes Mercosur deferral as a victory for farmers and people power
Independent Ireland welcomes Mercosur deferral as a victory for farmers and people power
Independent Ireland has welcomed the decision by the European Parliament to freeze the Mercosur trade deal and refer it to the EU Court of Justice, describing the move as a clear victory for farmers, food producers and rural communities across Ireland.
The party said the deferral represents “round one to the farmers” and proves that sustained public pressure, unity and people power can force change at European level.
Party leader Michael Collins TD said the decision shows what can be achieved when farmers and communities stand together.
“This is a hugely important development. It is round one to the farmers, and it proves that when people unite and refuse to be ignored, they can win. Farmers were told this deal was inevitable — today shows that was never true. We need to keep the pressure on and keep going until Mercosur is stopped for good,” Deputy Collins said.
Independent Ireland agriculture spokesperson Michael Fitzmaurice TD said the referral to the EU Court of Justice underlines the seriousness of the concerns surrounding the deal.
“This decision vindicates what farmers have been saying from the very beginning. Mercosur raises fundamental issues around food safety, environmental standards and the survival of Irish family farms. Freezing the deal is a major step, but it is not the end of the road,” he said.
Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly who has led the charge against Mercosur in Europe said the deferral sends a powerful message to Brussels and to the Irish Government.
“This outcome has been driven by people power. Farmers, rural communities and concerned citizens refused to accept backroom deals that would undermine Irish agriculture. Unity has delivered results, and that unity must now be maintained,” he said.
Deputy Richard O’Donoghue TD said the momentum must not be lost.
“Today proves that farmers were right to stand their ground. This deal threatens livelihoods and standards that have taken generations to build. We cannot let up now. The fight continues, and we will stay with farmers every step of the way,” he said.
Deputy Ken O’Flynn TD said the decision reflects growing unease across Europe about the implications of Mercosur.
“There is a clear recognition now that this deal raises serious questions about fairness, traceability and standards. Irish farmers have led the opposition, and today’s decision shows that their voices are finally being heard,” he said.
Independent Ireland said the deferral must now be followed by continued pressure on the Irish Government and EU institutions to ensure Mercosur is ultimately rejected.
Fitzmaurice concluded:
“We have shown that unity works, “This is an important win, but it is not the finish line. With continued people power and determination, we can protect Irish farming, Irish food standards and Ireland’s rural economy.”
