42% of people have changed their weekly food shop because of the increased cost of fuel.
A survey of over 4,000 motorists by AA Ireland revealed that 80% of respondents are affected by the rising costs.
Petrol prices have increased by 11.5% in the last two weeks, from an average of €1.91 per litre to €2.13, making it 41% more expensive than last year.
Diesel is 45% more expensive than last year, with the average price jumping from €1.41 per litre to €2.05.
It is currently costing people over €100 a month to fill their cars.
How people are affected
The increase in fuel prices is affecting people in many ways.
1 in 10 people have started walking instead of driving. Half of the people surveyed said they have been forced to cut out fun activities with their families. 30% of people believe it is unlikely that they will staycation this year, with 18% saying they will go abroad.
“We are reaching very worrying levels in terms of fuel costs and the survey shows that these fuel costs are affecting other areas of family life, such as food shopping and family activities,” said AA Ireland spokesperson, Anna Cullen.
Compared to 2021, the average petrol driver is now spending €750 more per year and the average diesel driver is now spending €640 more per year.
Changes to make
The survey asked people various questions about what can be changed to help with the rising price of fuel.
37% said they want a reduction in Value Added Tax (VAT), 30% want further cuts to excise duty, 23% want all tax removed from fuel, and 20% want the carbon tax reduced.
Other changes the respondents want to see include a temporary price cap, incentives to buy electric cars, and alternative options such as public transport.
For more news, see the WLR website.
