Mandelson: We must make sure what we’ve achieved is not lost

THE world trade talks which collapsed in Geneva this week should be renewed later in the year, European Union chief negotiator Peter Mandelson suggested yesterday.

He said the world economy had lost a much-needed “insurance policy” with the failure of the marathon negotiations to liberalise international commerce.

“So, in the autumn, after a summer of reflection, we must renew our dialogue, nurture our relationships and talk like adults about where we go from here.

“My team and I look forward to returning to Geneva, not to take up where we left off, but to make sure what we have achieved is not entirely lost,” he said.

But the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association president Jackie Cahill said earlier the Doha Round should be buried and there should be no talk of another resurrection where farmers will be asked for even more concessions.

“Irish and European farmers must realise how close we have come to commercial oblivion and we must take steps that prevent us ever again skirting such disaster.

“Ireland and the other European countries must now use this respite to actively develop a food sector that suits our own needs and future security,” he said.

Irish Farmers Association president Pádraig Walshe called on Tánaiste Mary Coughlan to support France in tearing up the EU offer at the collapsed talks as the other parties have walked away from the table.

Mr Walshe said Europe must get away from the flawed basis of its Doha offer and any future trade deal must start with a clean sheet.

While the Irish farm lobby welcomed the collapse of the talks, John Whelan, chief executive, Irish Exporters Association, said the outcome was very disappointing.

There had been strong expectations amongst exporters that a successful conclusion to the negotiations would have greatly improved access for Irish goods and services abroad, he said

However, Ms Coughlan, said on RTÉ radio yesterday, the Government was working in areas, such as the Far East and South America, to seek new export markets. She added that Ireland always had access and opportunities in overseas markets.