The Coalition is hanging by a thread ahead of Friday's crunch decision on whether the Government will vote for or against the controversial Mercosur deal. Senior Government sources said there is “every chance” Kerry junior minister Michael Healy-Rae could walk away from Government over the EU/South American trade deal. When asked if he would pull down the Government, Mr Healy-Rae told the Irish Examiner it was “not even for discussion now” but insisted he and other Regional Independents’ opposition was “steadfast”. Until now, the Government has repeatedly opposed the trade deal between the EU and South American countries, with concerns focusing on the importation of beef. When asked if he could pull the Government down if it agreed to vote in favour of Mercosur, Mr Healy-Rae said negotiations were ongoing.

Source: Irish Examiner January 07, 2026 21:30 UTC