Government set to act on spiralling Mayo fuel costs

Minister of State Alan Dillon is “deeply conscious of the pressure and anxiety” being felt by families, workers and businesses across Mayo and nationwide as fuel and energy prices continue to surge.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s Cabinet meeting, Minister Dillon said the government is finalising a coordinated response to the rapidly rising cost of energy, driven by the conflict in the Gulf and wider Middle East.

“I know people are really feeling financial pressure, and indeed real financial anxiety. Households, motorists and businesses have endured increases that are, quite frankly, extraordinary,” he said.

“Fuel prices are still bearing down very hard on workers and families.”

While emphasising that formal decisions will be taken on Tuesday, Minister Dillon confirmed that the measures under consideration are designed to support those most exposed to sudden price shocks.

“We are looking at a package in the round,” he added.

“It must support families, safeguard those most at risk of fuel poverty, and help the sectors that keep our supply chains moving.

"Whatever we bring forward will require flexibility.”

He confirmed that Tanaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris and the government is now examining a series of emergency steps, including potential reductions in excise duty and targeted supports for the haulage sector.

Officials have also been asked to review existing rebate schemes to ensure they are accessible, efficient and responsive to the inflationary pressures operators now face.

The minister stressed that while the government can act decisively, it cannot fully offset global factors driving the crisis.

“The scale of the energy shock is unprecedented. The causes are well beyond our control, and no government can cushion the full blow,” he said.

“But we are acting, responsibly and urgently to ease the impact wherever we can.”

He said Ireland’s strong fiscal position allows the government to respond with targeted, time‑bound interventions while maintaining the flexibility needed as the situation evolves.

Minister Dillon concluded by reassuring the public that the government is fully engage, “this government understands the gravity of the situation. It is sizeable, it is serious, and it demands a calm, coordinated and evidence‑based response, not knee‑jerk reactions. We will continue to act in the best interests of households, communities and the wider economy.”

A full announcement will be made following Tuesday’s Cabinet discussions