Macra:Young Farmers Need Certainty as Mercosur Decision Delayed

Macra has stated that the postponement of today’s vote on the EU–Mercosur trade agreement extends uncertainty for farmers, with young farmers being particularly vulnerable to prolonged indecision.

While the delay allows for further consideration of the issues involved, it also leaves early-stage farm businesses without clarity on future market conditions. Young farmers making investment and production decisions need certainty, not continued ambiguity around trade policy.

Concerns around regulatory standards, environmental requirements and the cumulative impact of trade agreements remain unresolved. These issues must be fully addressed before any agreement can be progressed.

Macra is calling on the Government to use this period to defend the interests of Irish farmers at EU level,  and to clearly articulate how young farmers will be protected under any future trade arrangement.

Macra National President, Josephine O'Neill said: "While the decision to postpone the vote on the Mercosur Trade Deal is welcome, uncertainty surrounding the agreement still looms large for Irish beef and poultry farmers. Our elected representatives must now ensure that the significant concerns of young farmers are listened to and acted upon to ensure that the inevitable vote on the Mercosur Trade Deal is rejected"