Taoiseach Micheál Martin has chaired a Cabinet meeting where ministers received a detailed update on ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the escalating fuel crisis affecting hauliers, farmers, and the wider agri-food sector.
Senior ministers, including Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan and Defence Minister Helen McEntee, also provided a security briefing on the nationwide protests that have disrupted fuel distribution, transport networks, and essential services over recent days.
A Government spokesperson confirmed that discussions included a progress report on intensive talks held throughout the weekend between ministers and sectoral representatives. These meetings focused on shaping a new support package designed to ease the financial burden on industries hit hardest by rising fuel prices.
Negotiations between Government departments and representatives from haulage, farming, fisheries, and agribusiness sectors concluded for the day after extended discussions in Dublin. The proposed package is expected to include a targeted fuel support scheme for hauliers, farmers, and contractors, with direct payments under consideration.
Sources indicate that these payments could be backdated to last month, though officials stressed that any scheme introduced would be temporary and subject to ongoing review in light of global energy volatility.
The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) said it now believes a “basis of a deal” has been reached with Government officials. Deputy Vice President Eugene Drennan said he would recommend acceptance of the proposal to members once it is formally confirmed, noting that the scheme would apply broadly across the haulage sector.
While talks continue, protests have entered their fifth day, with blockades still in place at several fuel facilities and key transport routes. However, Gardaí confirmed that the blockade at the Whitegate oil refinery in Co Cork has now been cleared following a major enforcement operation. A police presence remains in the area to ensure continued access to fuel infrastructure.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said arrests were made during the operation and warned that further enforcement actions may follow in the coming days. He said officers had given protesters advance warning before moving to restore fuel supplies.
In Galway, a significant Garda presence remains at the docks where hundreds of demonstrators continue to gather, although some fuel tankers have resumed movement after days of disruption. In Dublin, blockades have also affected O’Connell Street and surrounding areas, with transport diversions continuing across the city.
Public transport operators have reported ongoing delays and service reductions, while Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus warned passengers to expect disruptions and allow additional travel time. Emergency services have prioritised fuel supplies for ambulances, with Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill warning of potential knock-on effects for hospital services if blockades persist.
An Garda Síochána has also declared an “exceptional event,” allowing increased deployment of officers and suspension of rest days to manage the situation.
Cabinet is expected to finalise the support package in the coming days, with officials describing the ongoing negotiations as constructive but urgent as pressure mounts to bring an end to the disruption.