Fuel providers seek postponement of excise rise

The increase is part of a process to restore the cuts introduced in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine

From next month, diesel prices will rise by 3c per litres while petrol will increase by 4c.

Filling station operators and fuel providers are urging the new minister for Finance Jack Chambers to postpone the planned excise duty increase on fuels due to come into effect on August 1.

Representative body Fuels For Ireland (FFI) said that with the Oireachtas going on summer recess this week, the Minister has mere days to take action.

Excise duty was last hiked in April. The increase is part of a process to restore the cuts in excise introduced in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine that resulted in a surge in fuel prices.

From next month, diesel prices will rise by 3c per litre while petrol will increase by 4c. Marked gas oil will increase by 1.7c per litre.

"Alongside this unfair imposition on drivers, forecourts near the border have seen a severe reduction in business since April 1st as consumers drive to Northern Ireland to fill up their tanks," FFI chief executive Kevin McPartlan said. "A further tax increase risks the viability of businesses in these areas."

The group also flagged, the already agreed carbon tax increase in the budget that will add a further two cents per litre on fuels. "Each of these is before Vat is applied, meaning a total increase of 5c per litre to petrol and diesel in the next six months, even without the excise duty increase scheduled for August 1," he said.

"With the Oireachtas rising this Thursday, July 11, the Minister is short on time and needs to make a decision before the Dáil goes on summer recess. It is crucial to take immediate action. If no changes are made, the excise duty increase will proceed as planned.