Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 9 September 2024
1282. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on his Department’s engagement with relevant EU bodies with respect to the Mercosur Trade Deal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35336/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe European Commission reached political agreement in its trade negotiations with the Mercosur countries in June 2019. Due to concerns raised by a number of Member States, including Ireland, on the environmental and sustainability provisions included in the original agreement, the European Commission and Mercosur recommenced negotiations on an additional joint instrument which they hope will address these concerns.
Throughout these negotiations, my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, which leads on trade policy issues for the Government, have liaised closely, and have engaged with our EU colleagues on issues of concern. These engagements have continued during the current negotiations between the EU and Mercosur on the proposed additional instrument.
Ireland has consistently emphasised to the Commission that the additional instrument currently being negotiated must be comprehensive in its scope. It must include commitments on climate change, biodiversity, combating deforestation and labour rights. Indeed, I reiterated these points at the most recent Agri-Fish Council meeting in July.
The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment and I, as well as the officials in our respective Departments, continue to raise these issues at EU level.
