Proposed 30% tariffs a direct threat to Irish jobs - government must act, says Mayo TD

Aontú TD for Mayo, Paul Lawless has warned that the proposed 30% tariff on EU goods could have devastating consequences for the Irish economy, particularly in regions like Mayo that depend heavily on exports from the medtech (medical technology) and pharmaceutical sectors.

He said: “Aontú has been raising the alarm on this issue for some time. We brought forward a Private Members’ Bill urging the government to prepare for the impact of tariffs. At the time Minister of State Alan Dillon claimed there was no threat to Ireland. I said then that this was dangerously complacent, and now the reality is catching up.”

Deputy Lawless noted the stark shift in tone from senior government figures, with the Tánaiste recently acknowledging a ‘major economic challenge’ and EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič warning that US-EU trade could become almost impossible under a 30% tariff regime.

Deputy Lawless added: “This is no longer speculation, it’s a real and immediate threat.

"I’m calling on the Taoiseach to set out clearly what contingency plans are in place. We need to have a clear understanding of what this will mean for Irish workers, exporters and for Mayo in particular.

"The stakes are too high for the government to take a back seat role. We need a strong voice representing us in Europe.

"Already we see how butter and Boeing may be hit, as well as retaliatory tariffs on the drinks industry.

"We want to see the government representing us and ensuring that Irish interests are protected.”