ICSA is in Brussels today alongside thousands of farmers from across Europe who have mobilised to demand urgent action to protect the future of EU agriculture.

 Speaking from the protest, ICSA general secretary Hugh Farrell said Irish farmers had no choice but to make their voices heard. “It is hugely important that ICSA is here today, standing shoulder to shoulder with farmers from across Europe. Agriculture is being sacrificed through reckless trade deals and proposals to slash the CAP budget, and farmers are here to say clearly that this will not be accepted.”

 Continuing Mr Farrell said, “Mercosur is not a done deal. This agreement completely undermines the standards European farmers are required to meet and poses a direct threat to the future of beef farming in Ireland. ICSA will oppose it at every level and for as long as it takes.”

 “In addition, a strong, properly funded CAP is essential for farm incomes, rural communities and food security. Cutting the CAP budget while demanding more from farmers is not credible and will not be tolerated.”

 Concluding Mr Farrell said, “European farmers will not be written off or sacrificed. A fair CAP and fair trade are non-negotiable.”