The Government has unveiled a major package of fuel cost measures, worth €505 million, as protests and blockades begin to ease across the country.
The measures aim to reduce pressure on households, businesses and key sectors, with immediate cuts to fuel excise and targeted supports for transport operators, farmers and fishers.
The announcement comes as Gardaí moved to clear blockades at key infrastructure, with protests across the country stood down, with protests having took place across parts of Waterford and the rest of the country yesterday.
However, it remains unclear whether further demonstrations will take place.
Fuel excise cuts to take effect immediately
The Government confirmed further reductions in fuel excise, which will take effect from midnight on April 14th and remain in place until July 31st.
Diesel will see a total reduction of 32 cent per litre, while petrol will drop by 27 cent per litre. Green diesel, widely used in agriculture, will also see a reduction of 7.4 cent per litre.
Ministers have also deferred the planned carbon tax increase, which had been due to come into effect in May.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the package reflects the scale of the crisis facing families and businesses.
“The Government recognises the pressures caused by rising fuel costs and this package is a significant response,” he said.
Tánaiste Simon Harris added that the measures aim to provide relief during what he described as an unprecedented global energy crisis.
Major supports for transport and haulage sector
A central part of the fuel cost measures package is the introduction of a new Road Transporters Support Scheme.
The scheme will provide direct payments to haulage and coach operators, with smaller businesses receiving proportionately higher support.
Payments will be backdated to March and will continue for at least three months, depending on diesel prices.
Minister of State Seán Canney said the focus is on practical support to keep supply chains moving.
“This is about supporting jobs and ensuring our economy continues to function,” he said.
The Irish Road Haulage Association welcomed the package, with President Ger Hyland describing it as a fair and balanced outcome following intensive talks with Government.
He said the supports would help mitigate the worst effects of rising fuel prices on the sector.
€100 million support scheme for farmers and fishers
The Government has also introduced a €100 million fuel subsidy scheme for agriculture and fisheries.
The scheme will provide €20 million per month to support farmers and contractors during peak usage months, with additional funding allocated for fishers and related sectors.
The move follows sharp increases in green diesel prices, which have nearly doubled in recent months.
Political pressure remains despite measures
Despite the announcement of fuel cost measures, political pressure on the Government continues to build.
Sinn Féin has confirmed it will table a motion of no confidence in the coming days, citing dissatisfaction with the handling of the crisis.
Waterford TD David Cullinane described the Government’s response as “disgraceful” and said many families continue to struggle with rising living costs.
Uncertainty remains over further protests
While Garda operations have cleared many blockades and eased disruption, uncertainty remains over whether protests will continue.
Fuel shortages and supply chain disruption have already impacted communities across Waterford in recent days, with long queues reported at service stations and concerns raised about wider economic effects.
The latest fuel cost measures are expected to bring some stability, but it remains to be seen whether they will be enough to prevent further unrest.
For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.
