Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald has called on Taoiseach Micheál Martin to ensure that the Irish Government votes against the “ruinous” Mercosur agreement.

A vote on the trade deal is to take place at a European Council meeting in December and McDonald has called on the Government to work with like-minded member states to form a blocking minority in opposition to the deal.

Challenging the Taoiseach in the Dáil on Wednesday, McDonald said that the trade agreement would be a disaster for Irish farmers, for consumers and for our environment.

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“Last week, Sinn Féin tabled a Dáil motion calling on your Government to oppose the deal. TDs from across the political divide, including many of your own backbench TDs, spoke strongly against this deal.

Blocking minority

“However, Minister Heydon refused to state that the Government would oppose the deal or seek to form a blocking minority to the deal.

"He stated that no other EU state is considering this approach. That's not true. We know that France, Poland and Austria are weighing up such a move," McDonald said.

This, she added, is an opportunity to defend Irish farmers, protect Irish agriculture and stop this ruinous deal in its tracks.

Speaking following the exchange, Ms McDonald said that the Taoiseach’s "evasive response" and his refusal to commit to voting against Mercosur or to work to form a blocking minority will be cold comfort for Irish farmers who are very worried now.

“The real risks for the future of Irish agriculture, for the viability of farming and for our environment are well known. The Government must do everything to stop this deal. There is far too much on the line," she said.