Two weeks ago, I asked the Taoiseach two questions. I asked him, first of all, whether the Government would vote against Mercosur when the vote comes to the European Council, and I asked him whether he would work with like-minded member states to form a blocking minority against this ruinous deal. He failed to answer either of those questions. I would now like him to make the Government's position clear because the vote is scheduled to take place in Brussels tomorrow. There is a chance of securing a blocking minority. France, Poland and Hungary have stated they will vote against the deal. Italy wants the vote postponed. I want the Taoiseach to be clear at this juncture because it is now time to be straight with people. Will the Government vote against the Mercosur deal at the European Council meeting - yes or no?

First of all, there is huge uncertainty as to when that vote will be taken. It was meant to be taken last Friday and was not because, as the Deputy said, a number of countries were anxious that it be postponed. The Deputy referenced Italy and France. The Irish position has been that we have been working with like-minded countries in respect of Mercosur, in terms of-----

To block it.

-----first of all making sure there are substantial safeguards, which have happened. The situation has changed since last year. What the Commission has now brought forward is different. That has to be acknowledged. The European Parliament voted for the additional safeguards. We said we would continue to work with like-minded countries on this. We have concerns with this agreement.

To achieve what?

To get the best outcome for Irish farming.

To vote against it.

No, we have 18 Deputies.

I asked the Taoiseach whether he would vote for or against. He has not elucidated a clear response.