Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The concern about the Mercosur agreement relates to its beef aspect and the 99,000 tonnes of tariff-rate quota. Wider trade agreements have a benefit for Ireland, including our agrifood industry. We export 90% of all of our agricultural produce. As such, being able to trade internationally is important.

The part of the Mercosur agreement that I am concerned about is the tariff-rate quota of 99,000 tonnes, particularly in terms of how it is produced in Mercosur countries. There must be an equivalence of standards with those we apply to the sustainability of our produce, especially in terms of the carbon footprint.

Completing the review of the impacts is an appropriate way of considering this issue and informing us as we proceed. As I have outlined clearly at all times, however, the 99,000-tonne quota is something that I remain concerned about. It will be the matter on which I approach this deal as Minister.

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