Fuel protests continue in Cork

Fuel protests have continued in some parts of Cork this morning, despite a support package of €505 million announced by the Government last night.

Traffic has backed up at the Shannonpark roundabout heading towards Ringaskiddy as heavy-good vehicles (HGVs) and tractors engage in a go-slow protest. Similar sights can be seen on Carr’s Hill.

Seán O’Neill, Communications Director for Transport Infrastructure Ireland confirmed on RTÉ’s ‘Morning Ireland’ that go-slow protests were still taking place around the country.

City centre protest

A large protest took place in Cork city centre yesterday. HGVs and tractors drove slowly down Washington St onto Grand Parade before continuing down South Mall. Gardaí said that they engaged with the drivers “to ensure public safety” and that they agreed to leave the area. However, a number of protestors on foot were arrested.

“Five people - four males (two in their 50s, one in his 40s and one in his 30s) and one female in her 40s - were arrested under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994. They were taken to a garda station in Cork city and later released, having been charged to appear before Cork District Court in the coming weeks,” said a spokesperson.

Yesterday, following engagement with bodies representing hauliers, farmers, and agricultural contractors, the Government announced a package of supports costed at approximately €505 million. It includes a delay in the raising of the carbon tax from May until October, an extension of the cut to excise duty on fuel until the end of July, and a reduction in mineral oil tax on petrol and diesel by 10c.

No confidence vote

Sinn Féin have said that they will be tabling a no confidence vote in the Dáil due to the Government's handling of the crisis. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald called it "a shambles".

Aontú, Labour, the Social Democrats, People Before Profit, and Independent Ireland have all indicated that they will support the vote.