Fuel prices reaching level of ‘national emergency’

The Minister for Transport has met with the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) to discuss the increasing impact of the situation in Iran on fuel costs across Ireland. Hauliers are seeking additional support as fuel prices continue to rise.

Fuel Price Crisis a “National Emergency”

The IRHA has stated that the fuel price crisis is approaching the level of “a national emergency” and has urged the Government to act quickly to agree on a new package of measures with hauliers. The group reported that fuel prices have risen more than 35% since the Government announced initial supports less than two weeks ago.

Eugene Drennan, Deputy Vice President of the IRHA, said the price of fuel “has now gone way past” what it was when the first package of supports was announced. He stated, “We’re very close to a national emergency here. They must react and they must react swiftly and quickly.”

During an online meeting, the IRHA informed Minister Darragh O’Brien that hauliers should be prioritized if fuel rationing is introduced. The minister indicated the situation would be discussed by EU transport ministers next week and agreed to meet with the group again in the coming weeks.

Government Response and Concerns

The Taoiseach has said the Government is not currently considering fuel rationing, noting that supplies are available “until the end of April.” Micheál Martin acknowledged that a prolonged conflict in the Middle East would have “very significant impacts” on the world economy, but expressed hope for a swift resolution.

Martin also stated that the government cannot fully compensate every person and sector during the energy crisis caused by the situation in Iran.