McGuinness fears Mercosur talks will be harmful to Irish agriculture

THE decision of the European Commission to re-open trade talks with South American trade group Mercosur could have far-reaching implications for Irish and European agriculture.

Ireland East European Parliament member Mairead McGuinness issued the warning as the EU and the Mercosur group of countries comprising Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay prepared to re-launch talks suspended in 2004 over trade differences.

Leaders are expected to formalise the move at an EU-Mercosur summit which will be held in Madrid in two weeks.