Independent Ireland representatives Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, Cllr Paul Hogan and Ciaran Mullooly MEP in the TUS International Arena in Athlone. Mercosur rally in Athlone today will 'focus many political minds'One of the organisers of today's public meeting regarding the EU-Mercosur trade agreement at the Technological University of the Shannon, Athlone has said today’s rally would focus the minds of many MEPs across Europe:MEP Ciaran Mullooly was speaking ahead of the protest and meeting at the TUS campus in Athlone today. The event is expected to draw over 10,000 attendees who will hear several speakers, including Mullooly and Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice. Additionally, there will be several MEPs and representatives from other political parties and groups speaking at the event following invitations to do so from Independent Ireland. Speaking ahead of the protest in Athlone this morning, Independent Ireland Agriculture spokesperson Michael Fitzmaurice said the battle to stop the Mercosur deal is far from over.

Source: Irish Independent January 10, 2026 08:34 UTC