Fuel protests across Northern Ireland amid ongoing energy crisis
A number of protests have been taking place across Northern Ireland amid the ongoing fuel crisis.
Farmers and hauliers from throughout the region have been echoing the calls from their counterparts in the Republic of Ireland for more to be done to reduce the price of fuel, which has been having a crippling effect on businesses, with small, independent businesses in particular feeling the strain.
On Tuesday 14th April, protests took place at several locations including the Westlink in Belfast, Sydenham Bypass, Sprucefield, Greysteel, Ballygawley Roundabout and Omagh. Demonstrators are objecting to the rising cost of fuel and energy bills, with fuel costs soaring globally as a result of the war in the Middle East.
The First and deputy First Ministers have written to the Prime Minister urging him to take immediate action in response to the escalating impact of rising fuel and energy costs on households and businesses here, stating they were deeply concerned about the escalating pressures facing families, workers and businesses.
“The cost of fuel is putting significant pressure on, with the increases not sustainable. These pressures are being felt in family homes here and beyond,” said Michelle O’Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly.
“Alongside rising fuel costs and escalating energy bills, there is also an impact on businesses. Our hauliers, our farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises are facing sharply increased operating costs too and these costs are inevitably being passed on further, deepening the cost-of-living crisis.”
They added that businesses and families cannot continue to absorb these sustained increases without intervention and called on Sir Keir Starmer to bring forward a package of measures to support those under pressure.
“This package should include a reduction in fuel duty to ease pressure on both households and businesses, targeted support for hauliers, farmers and SMEs and a comprehensive cost of living support package,” said the Ministers.
“Given the scale and immediacy of this crisis, we have asked the Prime Minister to act decisively and without delay.”
Significant disruption was caused in the Republic of Ireland with demonstrators blocking fuel depots and major road networks around the country. At the weekend, Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced a €505 million package to support those most affected by rising fuel costs.
It was also announced the Irish Government would extend temporary measures to reduce excise duty on petrol, diesel and marked gas oil.
Protestors were removed from a number of sites in RoI, including O’Connell Street in Dublin by Gardaí, while the Irish Defence Forces were also called in to support the Gardaí.
The PSNI has said they have prepared a response to minimise disruption and ensure public safety during the planned protests in Northern Ireland.
