Fuel price increases 'out of control' in Donegal with desiel now over €2 per litre

A Donegal county councillor has called on the government to act to safeguard consumers from the dramatic rise in fuel prices.

Recent military actions involving the US, Israel, and Iran have caused global oil markets to surge, directly impacting Irish pumps, although Cllr Jack Murray of Sinn Féin says the high-level of tax in Ireland must be lowered to assist consumers.

The national average price of a litre of unleaded in February was 173c per litre, and 172c for diesel, according to the AA and now unleaded is as high as 182.9 in Donegal and is up to 205.9 cent in certain places.

“Fuel price increases are out of control,” Cllr Murray posted. “And the reality is that the government is taking up to 65% in tax from every euro spent on fuel. At a time when families are already struggling with the cost of living, this simply isn’t sustainable.

“The price of essentials like home heating oil, petrol and diesel is rising sharply again as supplies come in at higher costs, driven by the ongoing illegal wars in the Middle East.

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“Diesel is now exceeding €2 per litre in some parts of the country, and people across Donegal - especially in rural areas where driving is essential - are feeling the pressure. For many households here, heating your home and getting to work or school are not luxuries. They are basic necessities.

“But these pressures are not inevitable. They are also the result of political choices. There are choices that could protect people: scrap the planned carbon tax increase, reduce taxes on petrol, diesel and home heating oil during this crisis, and bring forward real supports for working people and families who are under increasing financial strain. The Government needs to make a choice to stand with ordinary people. Platitudes aren't enough. They need to act.”