Gardaí say Whitegate access 'secured'

Gardaí have announced that they have reopened access to the Whitegate Refinery. In a statement on X, gardaí said that “during an operation this morning 10th April, An Garda Síochána secured access to the National Critical Infrastructure site at Whitegate refinery”.

“There was no disorder during this phase of the operation and no arrests were made. An Garda Síochána has and continues to engage extensively with those taking part in fuel protests across the country to facilitate peaceful protest while protecting public safety,” they said.

However, it is unclear to what extent supplies are being allowed to leave the refinery. In a statement to reporters at the refinery, a number of demonstrators indicated they were still restricting the supply of fuel being allowed to leave.

Anthony Kelleher said that only one load of white diesel per driver would be allowed to leave the site, and that it would be strictly for emergency services.

“We’ve agreed with them: kerosene, as much as they want. Chemicals that are needed for the refinery on-site, maintenance, food, anything else they need in there, free reign, they can use it away.

“One load of white diesel, after that, no more white diesel,” he said.

White diesel is diesel used in private vehicles. It is distinct from green diesel, which is used for agricultural machinery.

The protestors reiterated that they would remain peaceful, and would not interfere with any lorry drivers that arrived on-site.

Fuel protests have entered their fourth day and continue to cause major disruption around the country.

Blockades at fuel depots at Whitegate in Cork, Foynes in Limerick, and Galway Port have caused shortages in forecourts across Munster and Connacht. Many have already run out.

Calls have come from the Irish Medical Organisation - which represents doctors - the Coach Tourism and Transport Council of Ireland, Cork Chamber, and the Government to end the blockades.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien is to meet with representatives from a number of bodies this afternoon, including the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) and Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA). There have been conflicting reports as to whether representatives of the protestors will be in attendance. Speaking to RTÉ in Dublin this afternoon, John Dallon - who was identified as a spokesperson for demonstrators - said that the protest could go on for up to a month.