Mercosur trade deal to be referred to European Court of Justice - delaying it by up to two years

The Mercosur trade deal will be referred to the European Court of Justice - delaying it by up to two years.

The majority of MEPs voted for the move in the European Parliament today.

Farmers say the deal leaves Ireland at risk to hormone treated beef from South America.

Castlerea MEP Luke 'Ming' Flanagan warmly welcomed the vote today, which went his side's way by 334 to 324.

Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly also welcomes the outcome:

Leitrim councillor and farmer, Paddy O'Rourke, also welcomes the news: