“Retailerrs, hauliers and families have had enough,” say IRPA

The Irish Petrol Retailers Association (IPRA) have said that “retailers, hauliers, farmers and families have had enough,” and that they “recognise” the frustration that has led to protests bringing major routes to a standstill across Dublin and Ireland. 

“Retailers, hauliers, farmers and families have had enough,” said David Blevings, IPRA spokesperson.

“The government’s share of every litre sold at Irish forecourts is crushing consumers and businesses. Temporary tax cuts aren’t enough – we need a permanent reduction in excise duty now.””

The organisation outlined the current state of play, where they claim the government takes around 60% of pump prices through excise duties, VAT and levies, recent cuts 15 cents to petrol and 20 cent cuts to diesel expire on May 31st and that international voltility are leading to “unsustainable prices.”

“Our members see the frustration every day at the forecourt,” IPRA said.

“Motorists aren’t blaming retailers – they’re asking why Government taxation remains so high when global events are beyond anyone’s control”.

IPRA calls for:

• Immediate further excise duty cuts on petrol and diesel
• Extension of relief measures beyond May 2026
• Direct talks with retail, transport and farming representatives

“It is clear from today’s protests that the public won’t accept band-aid solutions. With slow-moving convoys gridlocking Dublin, farmers’ tractors on the M50, and hauliers demonstrating nationwide, the message to government is unambiguous – reduce your take, reduce the pain,” the organisation said.

“Fuel retailers operate on slim margins, and there is healthy competition at the forecourt. Forecourt operators are not the problem; high state taxes are. Thankfully, consumers are now seeing that and abuse at the pumps has greatly reduced. The government must act decisively to reduce costs to consumers” the organisation stated.