Calls for Government to halt reversal of petrol and diesel excise cuts

Prices at the petrol pumps skyrocketed in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The Irish Petrol Retailers Association (IPRA) has urged the Government to halt the increase in excise duty which is due to come into place in March.

Excise duty was cut in March 2022 in response to a jump in prices on forecourts as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, among other factors.

The cuts had been reversed on a phased basis — first in June 2023 and then in September — but the final increase was set to come into place in October 2023.

However, as part of Budget 2024, Finance Minister Michael McGrath delayed those increases to March 31, 2024.

Now, the IPRA want them to be done away with, saying they will "hit everyone in the pocket."

IPRA spokesman David Blevings explained: "We have already seen the biofuel cost increase by 2c/l in the new year and if the proposed increases go ahead at the end of March fuel costs will increase by a further 8c per litre for petrol and 6c per litre for diesel.

This increase will hit everyone in the pocket. From the individuals driving to work, families taking children to childcare, school and activities, and numerous businesses and station owners who provide local flexible employment in many towns and villages across the country.

Mr Blevings noted the border counties would be hit the hardest due to cheaper prices in Northern Ireland.

The IPRA said this would "decimate" border towns and villages as petrol stations will lose forecourt and shop customers.

Mr Blevings continued: "Many will need to cut staff hours, local jobs will be lost, and local money will leave towns and villages heading North.

"We have asked our members to place petitions on the counter tops in retail sites and ask customers to complete same. 

We believe we can show Minister McGrath that we have the full backing of Irish citizens behind our request. 

"Our message is simple — help us to save you money and keep local businesses open”.