Questions remain locally over Mercosur trade deal

Farmers from across the north west are set to up their campaign against the Mercosur trade deal.It comes after EU Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen agreed a trade deal with the Mercosur countries in Uruguay, which has been described by Irish farmers as a “sell out deal.” Many farmers feel the deal goes against the standards that they are required by the EU to maintain.The IFA President, Francie Gorman who is also the Vice-President of the European farmer representative body is among those taking part in a flash action protest in Brussels today.Sligo-Leitrim Independent TD Marian Harkin says the deal, as it stands, goes against standards that Irish farmers have been required by the EU to maintain.The Agriculture Minister, meanwhile, says the Mercosur deal will be examined carefully before a stance is taken. Donegal TD, Charlie McConalogue says the proposals will be looked at closely: