Concessions that require further reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) should not and would not be given at this week's World Trade Organization (WTO) talks, the Minister for Agriculture has stated.
Speaking prior to his departure to for the WTO meeting in Cancun, Mexico, Mr Walsh expressed cautious optimism about the outcome of this week's negotiations, which he said had major implications for world trade, particularly in agriculture.
Outlining his position ahead of the negotiations, Mr Walsh claimed that some WTO partners were making excessive claims on agriculture, which they were not prepared to reciprocate elsewhere. The bottom line of his negotiations would be to oppose such claims.
The outcome of the Cancun talks could have widespread implications for Irish agriculture, which relies heavily on foreign markets; over 90 per cent of beef and butter produced here is sold overseas.
Governments and WTO states are set to debate the trade rules and conditions at this week's meetings, which are up for review.
Although Mr Walsh indicated a failure to reach agreement would not lead to a breakdown in world trade, an agreement would reinforce the rules-based system of international trade and, as such, would be of benefit to Ireland.
Reform of the CAP was agreed by the EU Council of Ministers last June. The reforms sparked controversy at home with the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) opposing the measures - in particular a clause which removes the link between production and farm subsidies.
Also on the agenda this week is the expansion of trade with developing countries. The EU is the biggest importer of agricultural products from Africa and Latin America.