Dublin: A large-scale convoy protest against rising fuel prices caused widespread disruption across parts of Ireland, drawing significant support from both government and opposition representatives.
Organised through social media, the largely peaceful demonstration saw hundreds of tractors and lorries converge on Dublin, with participants voicing frustration over the rising costs of diesel, petrol and home heating oil linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict. Protesters called for immediate government intervention, including a cap on green and agricultural diesel and a reduction in carbon taxes.
These had a major impact on traffic, effectively paralysing routes across counties, including Louth, Meath, Kildare, Wicklow and Dublin. The convoy concluded near the General Post Office on O’Connell Street, though vehicles continued circulating in the city centre until late into the night.
Political figures from multiple parties expressed support for the demonstration. Representatives from Sinn Féin, Independent Ireland and Aontú backed the protest, with speakers including Matt Carthy, Peadar Tóibín and Micheál Collins calling for reductions in fuel-related taxes. Carthy criticised the government’s response, while Tóibín argued that ministers were out of touch with the financial pressures facing citizens.
Ciaran Mullooly also joined protests in Offaly, while Fine Gael councillors Andrew Reddington and Peter Keaney expressed support for farmers, hauliers and contractors affected by rising costs.
Despite the scale of the demonstration, the Irish Road Haulage Association did not officially endorse the protest. However, the association has separately engaged with Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien and Minister of State Seán Canney to highlight concerns over escalating fuel prices. A Department of Transport spokesperson confirmed that further discussions are ongoing, including at an upcoming meeting of European transport ministers.
Public Transport Disrupted
The protest also led to significant disruption to public transport services. Dublin Bus and Luas confirmed delays and partial suspensions as large numbers of vehicles blocked key centre routes.
Traffic congestion was particularly severe along the North and South Quays, with long queues of trucks and vans reported on Bachelor’s Walk approaching O’Connell Bridge. Luas Green Line services were unable to operate between St Stephen’s Green and Dominick due to blocked tracks at O’Connell Bridge. Although the main protest concluded earlier in the evening, the slow dispersal of convoys meant that disruption continued well into the night.
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