Crowds building ahead of Athlone rally as tension mounts over contentious EU-Mercosur trade agreement
Roscommon farmers marching in today's protest in Athlone, which will finish with a major rally at TUS.
Crowds are starting to build at TUS Athlone where a major rally will get underway this afternoon in opposition to the contentious EU-Mercosur trade agreement.
The event is expected to draw thousands of attendees who will hear several speakers, including MEP Ciaran Mullooly and Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice address the issue.
Hundreds of County Roscommon farmers have joined the demonstration as the cavalcade of tractors makes its way towards TUS.
Representatives from the major farmer representative organisations will also be addressing the crowd.
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.
As farmers from the four corners of Ireland bring Athlone to a standstill this morning, Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly said Ireland is sending a clear message to Europe.
Deputy Fitzmaurice added that some of those who voted in favour may change their minds in a crucial vote in March.
The public is asked to co-operate fully with the directions of An Garda Siochana enroute to and returning home from the venue and to expect delays.
