Commuters in the Republic of Ireland are being advised to prepare for significant delays as demonstrations against escalating fuel costs are underway across the nation’s roadways. Authorities are urging travelers to allocate additional time for their journeys to account for the disruptions.

Slow-moving convoys, comprising protesting drivers, have been observed on major arteries leading into Dublin and in the vicinity of other substantial urban centers. The Irish police force, known as Gardaí, is actively involved in managing traffic flow at numerous affected locations. Specific roads where their presence is assisting include the M1, N2, N3, N4, N7, and N11.

Dublin Airport has also issued a statement, encouraging passengers to anticipate potential travel disruptions when heading to or from the airport premises.

The sharp increase in fuel prices, affecting both petrol and diesel, is attributed to geopolitical events in the Middle East. The conflict has led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global trade. This closure has effectively halted approximately 20% of the world’s crude oil supply, the essential component in the production of these fuels, thereby driving up costs significantly.

In response to these price surges, diesel is now retailing at approximately €2.14 (£1.86) per liter in Ireland, with petrol priced around €1.91 (£1.66) per liter. Some areas are experiencing even higher prices for these commodities.

The government is addressing the escalating energy crisis. The Tánaiste, Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister, Simon Harris, has scheduled a dedicated meeting for Wednesday to discuss matters pertaining to energy supplies and pricing.

Affected Roadways

Protests involve slow-moving convoys impacting several key routes. The specific locations reported to be affected include:

M6 Junction 7, near Moate, County Westmeath
M8 Junction 4, close to Urlingford, County Offaly
N52 in Tullamore, County Offaly
The area surrounding Portlaoise, County Laois
M6 Junction 18, near Athenry, County Galway
The eastbound M3 approaching Junction 8 at Navan
The eastbound M4 near Junction 8 in Kilcock, County Kildare
The eastbound M7 heading towards Junction 13, adjacent to Kildare Village, County Kildare
The M7 motorway in the vicinity of Limerick city

Notably, the M7 motorway is experiencing blockades on both sides, with approximately 200 trucks and tractors participating in the convoy protest, causing substantial traffic obstructions.