Minister of State Seán Canney will today discuss the concerns of the Regional Independents group regarding the proposed Mercosur trade deal in an online meeting with Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
The Taoiseach is currently in China on a five-day visit aimed at increasing trade between Ireland and his host country.
Mr Canney has made clear his concerns regarding the proposed Mercosur trade deal between the EU and several South American countries led by Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
He has cited differences in beef and poultry regulations applied in both regions.
On Friday, the European Union’s 27 member states will vote to accept or reject the deal which has been 25 years in the making.
Beef farmers in Ireland are fearful that they will be undercut by cheaper South American beef which they claim is not subject to the regulatory standards which apply throughout the EU.
