‘We’re willing to close Ireland down over fuel costs’, says protest leader
We’re willing to close Ireland down over fuel costs
Protest leader vows extended action to curb rising prices
A Kildare farmer has declared readiness to “shut the nation down” to pressure the government into lowering fuel costs in the Republic of Ireland. John Dallon, a prominent voice in the ongoing demonstrations, hinted that the movement could persist for “weeks” as tensions over high fuel prices escalate. The standoff, sparked by the Middle East conflict involving the US and Israel, has disrupted transportation across key regions for the fourth consecutive day, with vehicles like tractors halting traffic flow.
Dublin Airport passengers are being urged to plan for longer travel times following reports of individuals carrying luggage along motorways due to persistent road closures. Dallon, speaking to Irish broadcaster RTÉ, emphasized the potential for extended protests: “If it takes a month, we are prepared to sit here.” The demonstrations have also reached critical points at Foynes fuel terminals in County Limerick, Galway Port, and the Whitegate Oil Refinery in east Cork, where police maintain a visible presence.
“Maybe for another week, maybe two weeks. If it takes a month, we are prepared to sit here.” – John Dallon
The Irish government has yet to deploy enforcement against protesters, with gardaí stating they are actively engaging with demonstrators. On Thursday, the army was called in to assist in clearing road obstructions, as police classify fuel depot protests as blockades. Meanwhile, officials are set to address concerns with industry representatives, including Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon and Minister of State Timmy Dooley, who will meet stakeholders on Friday.
Impact on essential services and daily life
The disruption has reached medical facilities, with the Health Service Executive requesting clear access to ensure patients can receive care. Prof Matthew Sadlier of the Irish Medical Organisation warned that missed appointments due to the protests are causing significant harm to healthcare. Personal accounts from participants highlight the crisis: Katie Cooney, traveling from County Cavan, called diesel prices “unreal,” noting fertiliser costs have surged to €800 from €550.
“Farms were impacted two weeks ago… It was €550, now it’s up to €800 for fertiliser. Farms and contractors need support.” – Katie Cooney
Mark Maguire, a Monaghan-Fermanagh border farmer, expressed frustration over unsustainable fuel costs, urging the government to abolish fuel taxes. Similarly, Mark Hegarty, who organized a major protest in Bridgend, County Donegal, shared that the demonstration began at 19:00 local time to avoid peak hours, with hundreds of lorries and tractors forming a slow-moving convoy for over four hours.
Regional disruptions and price surge
Transport Infrastructure Ireland reported that road closures are affecting Counties Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, Laois, Offaly, Kildare, Galway, Cork, and Dublin. Fuels for Ireland noted 100 forecourts have exhausted fuel supplies, with the number expected to climb to 500 by Friday night. The chief executive, Kevin McPartlin, revealed that half of the country’s new fuel supply remains trapped behind barricades.
The Middle East crisis has driven up diesel and petrol prices, with diesel in Ireland climbing from €1.70 to €2.17 per litre, and petrol rising by 25 cents. This surge follows the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has disrupted 20% of global oil trade. The protests, initiated on Tuesday, have seen escalating efforts, with truck drivers like Sonny Boyd initially leading the charge.
Details on all affected routes are available via the TII website, underscoring the widespread nature of the disruption. The ongoing demonstrations reflect a deepening crisis, as communities grapple with both economic and logistical challenges.
