Ireland fuel protests: Protesters 'will close country' down if necessary

---

Here is a summary of the recent National Fuel Protest in the Republic of Ireland based on the news report:

– **Background:**
Protests have been ongoing for four days, sparked by rising fuel prices which protesters attribute to the global oil supply crisis exacerbated by the war involving the US and Israel against Iran.

– **Protest Actions:**
Vehicles, including tractors, are blocking key roads across the country, causing travel disruptions. Protesters have also blockaded fuel terminals such as those in Foynes (County Limerick), Galway Port, and the Whitegate Oil Refinery in east Cork.

– **Protester Statements:**
John Dallon, a Kildare farmer and protest spokesperson, stated the protests might continue for weeks, potentially “a month,” and protesters are prepared to maintain blockades until fuel prices fall. He expressed willingness to “close the country” to achieve lower fuel costs.

– **Government Response:**
Taoiseach Micheál Martin criticized the blockades, stating they harm Ireland’s economy and society. He said “self-appointed” groups do not have the right to shut down the country and noted the Irish army is on standby to uphold the law.
The Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon and Minister of State Timmy Dooley are meeting representatives involved. Dooley urged de-escalation, recognizing peaceful protest but distinguishing blockades as excessive.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan warned of legal consequences for protesters, including possible impacts on driving licenses.

– **Impact:**
– Over 100 petrol stations have run out of fuel.
– Access to medical facilities is being affected; medical bodies have called to keep approaches clear to avoid detrimental effects on patient welfare.
– Commuters have faced long traffic jams, leading some to walk with luggage to bypass congested roads, such as Dublin’s M50 route toward the airport.

– **Law Enforcement:**
Gardaí have engaged extensively with protesters, secured access to critical infrastructure like Whitegate without disorder, and allowed some fuel trucks to pass blockades.

– **Summary:**
The protests represent significant public frustration with fuel prices but are causing widespread disruption and economic impacts, with both government and protesters expressing firm stances on continuing or ending blockades. Negotiations and discussions are ongoing.

If you need more detailed information from the article or specific quotes, let me know!

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More

---