Ireland's junior agriculture minister Timmy Dooley warns of a 'stark' outlook for farmers due to rising fuel and fertiliser costs. He calls for flexibility on EU climate rules and exemptions for fertilisers from the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). The closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid the Iran war has impacted global fertiliser supply. Ireland, supported by France and Italy, seeks relief from carbon costs to protect competitiveness. EU trade chief Maroš Šefčovič notes fertiliser prices are significantly higher than in 2020, affecting farmers. Ireland opposes the Mercosur trade deal over environmental concerns but sees opportunities in agri-food.