'No upside for Ireland' Longford MEP Mullooly critical of US-EU tariff agreement

Longford MEP Ciaran Mullooly has strongly criticised the US-EU tariff agreement announced this week, warning that it imposes permanent tariffs on Irish exports to the United States and deals a major blow to Ireland’s agri-food and beverage sectors.

“By any stretch of the imagination, this is not a good deal for Ireland," he said.

“It’s a damaging agreement for our exporters, and it appears EU leadership has simply capitulated to the US on this issue.”

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On the Irish Governments response, Mr Mullooly said, “I’m not sure how the Irish Government could call this a good deal: it’s certainly not for Irish companies - now facing 15% tariff hikes. We are still facing ongoing uncertainty.

“The nightmare of instability continues for distillers. Von der Leyen has admitted that there is still no deal, at least not until the next round of negotiations. This means the uncertainty is far from over for companies like Drumshanbo Gin, Tullamore Dew, and dozens of others. When will it end?," he added.

Mr Mullooly said as the most export-dependent economy in the European Union, Ireland stands to lose more than any other Member State under the terms of the new deal.

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He stated the tariffs will affect approximately €1.9 billion worth of Irish agri-food and beverage exports, with an estimated annual impact of €285 million - a 15% loss across key sectors:

Mr Mullooly said in terms of prepared foods there will be a €60 million loss (15% of €400 million), for dairy products there will be a €75 million loss (15% of €500 million).

He stated there will also be additional losses across beef and seafood exports

“This agreement leaves our producers less competitive in the US market. These are not theoretical numbers - this is real money lost from Irish businesses, rural communities, and jobs,” Mr Mullooly added.

In response to the announcement, the Midlands-North-West MEP confirmed he will write to both the Irish Government and the European Commission to demand urgent support.

The supports he is seeking include a financial rescue package for industries most affected by the new tariffs and increased promotional budgets, both at national and EU level, to help Irish producers retain market share in the US

“We cannot allow key Irish industries, dairy, prepared foods, beef, and seafood-to absorb this shock unaided.” Mullooly said, “ "They need a safety net and a strategy. The Government and the EU must step up without delay.”