Thousands of people are gathering in Athlone today to protest the EU’s approval of the Mercosur trade deal with South American countries.
The deal, backed by 20 EU member states despite opposition from Ireland, France, Austria, Hungary, and Poland, has raised concerns among Irish farmers.
Opponents argue it could allow cheaper agricultural imports, putting local farmers at a disadvantage.
The rally, being held today in TUS Athlone has been organised by the Irish Farmers Association [IFA] and is expected to draw thousands of attendees who will hear several speakers, including MEP Ciaran Mullooly and Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice address the issue at hand.
“There are tractors and cars arriving already from across the country, many carrying banners and flags,” said Kyle Butler, Bauer Media journalist, reporting from the scene.
“Convoys have been traveling along the M6 since early this morning. It’s well organised, with stewarding and traffic management in place," he told The Anton Savage Show.
Farmer and mental health campaigner Raymond Larkin highlighted the human impact:
“The Mercosur agreement is going to have a major effect on the mental health of farmers, rural communities have been left behind.”
Tainiste Simon Harris, who was questioned about the deal, at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition, told Butler that farmers in this country are "the backbone of this indigenous economy, not just in Ireland but in many member states."
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Independent Ireland TD Michael Fitzmaurice, one of the protest organisers, emphasised the broader goal:
“What we are doing today is to show that Irish farmers are disgusted with what’s going on, to encourage our MEPs to stand up and be counted.”
The main convoy is scheduled to leave the Athlone Institute around 11 a.m., with the central rally starting at 12:30 p.m.
Authorities warn of traffic delays and urge careful travel.
