Partial fuel protest to go ahead in Dublin as EU summit draws security lockdown

A protest over fuel prices will take place outside the Dáil at 12pm on Friday, despite a major security lockdown in Dublin while world leaders attend an EU summit.

Cork campaigner Anthony Kelleher, a leading voice in April’s Whitegate oil refinery blockade, said the People of Ireland Against Fuel Prices Protest will hold the Dublin demonstration but has cancelled the planned rolling protest convoys across the country.

James Geoghegan, John Dallon and Christopher Duffy – who led April’s fuel protest – will not be involved in Friday’s Dublin action. Geoghegan expressed support for the right to protest but warned that the heightened security presence and the government’s focus on European issues could make the event risky.

The protest movement faces concerns that far‑right elements could hijack the campaign. Diesel prices have fallen to €1.99 a litre, down from €2.25 in April, yet many still struggle despite a €505 million support package added to an earlier €250 million scheme, totalling €755 million.

The group’s statement on social media said it could not risk penalty points, fines or prosecutions for truck drivers, farmers, hauliers and other workers who rely on their licences and vehicles for a living, and therefore withdrew the nationwide rolling protests.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Alfo Medeiros / Pexels.