“We will continue to fight for Wexford farmers”

A Fine Gael TD for Wicklow Wexford, Brian Brennan has vowed to continue to work for the interests of Wexford farmers as the Mercosur deal progresses…

Speaking following the vote to approve the Mercosur deal, Brennan said:

“I have always been vehemently opposed to Mercosur and for months have been one of the most vocal members of government on this.

“While I welcome the decision of the Irish Government to vote against the deal, alongside France, Poland, Austria and Hungary, unfortunately this deal has passed to the next stage due to support from other EU countries.

The Mercosur deal will now need to be ratified by a majority of MEPs in the European Parliament, which will happen in the coming weeks.”

“If ratified, it is essential that the fight must continue to ensure support for our agricultural sector with key emphasis on improving checks and traceability for all imported meats, implementing safeguards; ensuring we put in place supports for any farmers that may be affected by this deal; and that we lead from the front on CAP negotiations ensuring the best deal possible for our farmers.

I will continue to be a strong advocate for the Wexford agricultural community but also in the interest of health we need to ensure that all measures are in place we maintain our high quality of food.

To that end, consumers have a huge part to play in this going forward. It is imperative that there is a huge push to BUY IRISH. Not only will buying Irish meat provide support to our indigenous industry, but it will also ensure that consumers have access to the best quality meat in our markets – Irish meat.”