Clare’s Minister of State says the measures announced by the Government will help those “burdened most” by fuel increases.
Cabinet has signed off on more than €500m in measures to support those struggling with rising energy costs, including a further 10c cut in excise duty on both petrol and diesel to the end of July and a 2.4c reduction on green diesel.
There will also be direct fuel payments to hauliers, bus operators, farmers, agricultural contractors and those involved in fisheries, while carbon tax increases have been delayed until the Budget in October.
Tulla Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley says the heaviest users of fuel will be greatest beneficiaries of the measures.
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Meanwhile, People are being warned to expect continued disruption across the roads network this morning.
A major Garda operation got underway to clear blockades overnight but delays are still expected on key routes.
The National Emergency Coordination Group is warning it could take days for fuel deliveries to return to normal.
It says disruption to port operations, fuel distribution and supply chains remain, along with continuing disruption to the road and public transport networks.
It’s again urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel and only purchase essential fuel.
The Government will face a Sinn Fein motion of no confidence this week.
The party says the disruption across the country in the last week highlight’s what it describes as a failure to respond to rising costs for households.
Two practical exams today won’t be going ahead due to possible disruptions from blockades.
The Leaving Cert Music and Junior Cycle Home Economics’ practical examinations have been deferred.
The State Examinations Commission has made the decision as it can’t be sure all examiners and students will be able to travel to schools.
However, the Department of Education’s confirmed Bus Eireann school transport buses will resume today.
