Longford MEP claims Fine Gael counterparts have let down farmers

Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly has accused Fine Gael of not defending Irish farm families adequately in the face of major EU trade decisions, an assertion which has been strongly rebuffed by MEPs Maria Walsh and Nina Carberry.

The Lanesboro native expressed "disappointment at the lack of unity among Irish MEPs - particularly Fine Gael - when it comes to defending robust safeguards for Irish family farmers", which they have said is untrue.

Mr Mullooly, who referred to recent European Parliament votes said a series of crucial amendments were brought forward to strengthen food safety, and ensure fair competition, and uphold the interests of rural Ireland.

He stated the amendments "called for rigorous scrutiny of the Mercosur deal’s impact on EU sustainability and food safety standards, demanded enforceable guarantees for a level playing field for EU farmers, and insisted that any agreement must fully comply with EU sustainability standards and the reciprocity principle before ratification".

Also Read: Annual Songs of Praise at Corboy Church off the N4 between Longford and Edgeworthstown

Mr Mullooly said one amendment even called for the deal to be scrapped altogether due to its negative implications for food safety, agricultural sovereignty, and the environment.

He stated at a time when Irish family farms are under 'unprecedented pressure', it is more important than ever that Irish MEPs collectively 'defend' our agricultural sector.

"The lack of solidarity—especially from Fine Gael—on these vital safeguards is deeply disappointing and sends the wrong message to farmers who depend on us for representation and protection," he said. "So why have they voted against the wishes of Irish family farmers, and not even told them that they have done so?”

Also Read: Longford branch of Alzheimer Society will hold their annual Tea Day on Thursday

Mr Mullooly stated that members of the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee (AGRI) have a duty to act as vigilant defenders of Irish and EU food safety and rural livelihoods.

“Family farmers and rural communities deserve nothing less than full protection and honest representation at every stage.”
In response Fine Gael Midlands North West MEP Nina Carberry said she was "disappointed to see a misrepresentation" of her voting record.

"I remain opposed to the Mercosur agreement as it stands.

"I’ve consistently raised concerns, including at the European Parliament’s Trade Committee hearing in December, where I challenged how the Commission can justify a deal that risks our environmental standards and undermines farmers’ livelihoods, especially during a succession crisis and increasing regulatory pressures.

Also Read: People in Longford urged to register, vote, engage and shape local community

"Regarding the amendments mentioned by MEP Mullooly: I supported Amendment 1, which expresses concern about the agreement’s potential impact on EU sustainability, safety standards, and our agri-food competitiveness.

"It rightly calls for a thorough assessment of compliance with EU standards and the principle of reciprocity.

"This amendment passed with majority support and clearly reflects my position.”

Ms Carberry also said that the report referenced by MEP Mullooly concerns the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy for 2024 and is unrelated to the Mercosur Agreement, which has not yet been voted on.

Midlands North West MEP Maria Walsh accused Mr Mullooly of having "misled the public on this issue and issuing incorrect information" to the media.

Also Read: Longford artist Eimear Walshe launches new solo exhibition in Athlone's Luan Gallery

"That a former journalist would spread misinformation is disappointing and a disservice to constituents across the Midlands-North West," she added.

Ms Walsh said she wanted to set the record straight.

"During April’s plenary session in Strasbourg, MEPs voted - as we do annually - on a report concerning the EU’s common foreign and security policy, not on the EU-Mercosur trade agreement as MEP Mullooly has said.

"Within this report, there were a number of amendments tabled in relation to Mercosur. "

Ms Walsh stated ,despite what MEP Mullooly had saidm she voted in favour of Amendment 1 which "highlighted [her] concern regarding the potential negative impact of Mercosur on EU sustainability and food safety standards".

She stated the amendment also called on the Parliament to examine whether the agreement meets EU standards and complies with the reciprocity principle.

"This amendment was passed by the Parliament, and made the final text of the report.

"The only Irish MEPs to vote against this amendment were from Fianna Fail and Labour, yet MEP Mullooly has decided to omit this fact."

Ms Walsh stated she voted in favour of strengthening food safety and fair competition, in favour of protecting farmers and rural Ireland.