Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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38. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of the latest Mercosur talks at EU level; and the steps he is taking to protect beef farmers here by ensuring that beef does not form part of the final Mercosur deal. [18299/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Discussions in relation to an EU /Mercosur trade deal are ongoing.

Ireland's position on these negotiations is well-understood at EU level and we are working hard to protect the best interests of Irish farmers.

While we have made it clear that we are broadly supportive of liberalised trade, we have been consistent in seeking appropriate balance in trade agreements, and in particular in seeking to protect vulnerable sectors such as beef.

Our position has been articulated through all available channels ,including by my colleague Andrew Doyle and I at Council of Agriculture Ministers meetings, and by other Ministers in the relevant EU Trade policy fora.

Ireland's views have also been articulated through direct contacts with Commissioners Hogan and Malmstroem, by the Taoiseach at European Council and through his own direct contacts, including with Commission President Jean Claude Juncker and French President Emmanuel Macron.

I believe there is a need for continued vigilance in relation to the conduct of these trade negotiations, and I will continue to insist that they are handled appropriately, and in a manner that safeguards the interests of the Irish and European beef sector.

I will also continue to work very closely with Member State colleagues in this regard. In particular, I believe full account must be taken of the findings of the Commission’s own assessment of the cumulative impact of trade deals on the agri food sector, and the potentially very damaging impact of Brexit on an already delicately balanced EU beef market.