Budget 2021: Eamon Ryan defends carbon tax amid claims it will lead to 'energy poverty'

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications and Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan at the Press Conference in Government Buildings, Dublin. Picture: Julien Behal 

Environment minister Eamon Ryan attempted to push back against the idea that carbon tax increases are punitive for the most vulnerable, as critics blasted plans to hike prices on petrol, diesel and oil.

He urged people to look at longer-term saving costs, but measures immediately implemented, such as the increase in carbon tax by €7.50 per tonne, will mean an extra €1.50 to fill a diesel car and €1.30 for a petrol one.