IFA says world trade talks are on brink of failure

The Irish Farmers Association says it believes the current round of world trade talks in Geneva are on the brink of failure.

The discussions broke down late last night, but are expected to reconvene at midday today in a final push to secure a deal.

The IFA says the issues of farm subsidies and tariffs remain the main stumbling blocks and it does not envisage any agreement being finalised today.

The association has always been critical of the stance taken by EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson, whom it has accused of selling out European farmers.