Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I have already signalled our concerns at European level in respect of the Mercosur deal and its compatibility with the climate change objectives of the European Union. Indeed, at the forthcoming summit next week I will be raising this in the context of discussions on climate change. There is a real issue about how Mercosur reconciles with the climate change agenda given the Brazilian Government's policy approach to the Amazon and to the wholesale destruction of the Amazon that is clearly under way. I do not believe the two are compatible.

The assessment referenced in the programme for Government by Deputy Carthy is not a delaying tactic. It is work that is necessary in any event and will be proceeded with.

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