Independent Ireland has welcomed the decision by the European Parliament today (Wednesday, January 21) to delay the Mercosur trade deal and refer it to the EU Court of Justice (CJEU), describing the move as a "clear victory for farmers, food producers and rural communities" across Ireland.

The party said the deferral represents “round one to the farmers” claiming that sustained public pressure, unity and people power can force change at European level.

EU Parliament president Roberta Metsola put the motion by MEPs to seek legal advice on whether the delay complies with EU Treaties, to the plenary session of the parliament and the majority of MEPs voted to seek legal advice on the deal, by a tight margin of 334 in favour to 324 against. There were 11 abstentions.

Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins TD said the decision shows what can be achieved when farmers and communities stand together.

“This is a hugely important development. It is round one to the farmers, and it proves that when people unite and refuse to be ignored, they can win.

"Farmers were told this deal was inevitable - today shows that was never true. We need to keep the pressure on and keep going until Mercosur is stopped for good,” Deputy Collins said.

Independent Ireland agriculture spokesperson Michael Fitzmaurice TD said the referral to the CJEU underlines the seriousness of the concerns surrounding the deal.

"Freezing the deal is a major step, but it is not the end of the road,” he said.

Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly who is among those leading the charge against the EU Mercosur trade deal in Europe said the deferral sends a powerful message to Brussels and to the Irish Government.

“This outcome has been driven by people power. Farmers, rural communities and concerned citizens refused to accept backroom deals that would undermine Irish agriculture.

The Midlands North West MEP added that today's vote was not about blocking trade, but rather "it is about making sure the rules have been followed and that parliament’s role is respected”.

Deputy Richard O’Donoghue added that the momentum must not be lost. “Today proves that farmers were right to stand their ground. This deal threatens livelihoods and standards that have taken generations to build.

"We cannot let up now. The fight continues, and we will stay with farmers every step of the way,” he said.

Deputy Ken O’Flynn said the decision reflects growing unease across Europe about the implications of the Mercosur deal: “There is a clear recognition now that this deal raises serious questions about fairness, traceability and standards.

"Irish farmers have led the opposition, and today’s decision shows that their voices are finally being heard.

Independent Ireland said the deferral must now be followed by continued pressure on the Irish Government and EU institutions to ensure Mercosur is ultimately rejected.

“We have shown that unity works. This is an important win, but it is not the finish line. With continued people power and determination, we can protect Irish farming, Irish food standards and Ireland’s rural economy," Michael Fitzmaurice said.

Mercosur trade deal

The trade deal element of the partnership agreement would see 99,000t of beef, mostly from Brazil, arrive into the EU on a reduced tariff of 7.5%.

In exchange, the EU will be able to export goods to the Mercosur countries at much more favourable tariffs, such as machinery and cars, but also agri-food produce such as olive oil and dairy.