The Irish government has announced a €220 million (£190 million) fuel support package for workers and businesses, responding to weeks of nationwide protests over soaring energy costs.
Protests brought major motorways and Dublin's main street to a standstill in early April, prompting the government to accelerate relief measures. Already, excise duty on petrol and diesel had been cut, and further cuts were made after the demonstrations.
On Wednesday, ministers detailed two new schemes:
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Road Transporters Supports Scheme (€120 million): For hauliers, bus and coach operators. Backdated to March, it applies when average national diesel prices exceed €1.90 per litre. Payments are graduated: operators with up to 5 vehicles get €1,350 per vehicle; 6–20 vehicles get €790 each; 21+ vehicles get €300 each. Applications open in May.
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Fuel Support Scheme (€100 million): For farmers, agricultural contractors, and fishers. Backdated from March to end of July, it supports those impacted by green diesel price hikes. Eligible recipients receive about 20 euro cents per litre (€200 per 1,000 litres) based on verified 2025 usage.
A communications campaign will advise households and businesses on managing energy costs.
Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien called the package "timebound and targeted," adding, "We will retain the ability to respond further if needed, but we must manage finances sustainably."
Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon said the government is "responding in real time" to challenges.
Opposition parties criticised the measures. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald told the Dáil that "households find it more and more difficult to pay their electricity bill," calling for energy credits and an emergency budget. "How many families have to fall behind before you wake up?" she asked.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin rejected her analysis, defending the government's actions.
In total, Ireland has spent €755 million (£654 million) on fuel supports in recent months, including previous excise duty cuts and delayed carbon tax increases.