An estimated 2,500 people march through streets of Castlebar to vent fuel anger

Sinn Féin to table a no confidence motion in the government

Over 2,500 people marched and drove through the streets of Castlebar today to protest at rising fuel prices and its impact on families and communities.

In a clear message over the government's inaction in respect of the matter, many shouted: "Out, out out."

The protest was also attended by haulage operators, agricultural contractors, transport companies and taxis who were taken to the streets for the second time in the space of five days.

The protest started at Market Square before proceeding around the town centre and stopping outside the constituency offices of Minister of State Alan Dillon at Linenhall Street.

It was staged as members of the cabinet are due to discuss supports for hauliers, farmers, and the fishing sector, in response to the fuel protests.

Cabinet meetings on Sundays are a rare event and only ever take place at a time of crisis.

It is expected that direct support for hauliers, along the lines of what was in place during Covid-19 pandemic, could be signed off by Cabinet this evening.

An extension of the diesel rebate scheme beyond June is also understood to be on the table.

On the question of further cuts to excise duty on fuel and oil, the government remains in contact with the European Commission to see if there is the flexibility in respect of the matter.

Separately, Sinn Féin is to table a no confidence motion in the government.

The party met this morning and accused the government of not listening to the public and not accepting the scale of the crisis.

Today's protest was attended by Mayo Sinn Féin TD Rose Conway-Walsh.