Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael must act now as fuel prices surge - Pearse Doherty TD

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty TD has said Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael must take immediate action to protect households as the cost of home heating oil and diesel continues to surge.

Donegal Deputy Doherty said families across the state were already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis before the latest spike in global oil prices linked to the war in Iran.

He added that the Fianna Fáil-Fine Gael government has the power to act immediately.

Teachta Doherty said: “Workers and families were already under enormous pressure from the cost-of-living crisis long before the latest surge in oil prices. Now the price of home heating oil and diesel is soaring again, with prices in many areas pushing above €2 per litre.

“Families are being hammered while Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and their ‘independent’ allies stand back and do nothing. Up to 65 per cent of the cost of fuel goes directly to the government in taxes. As prices soar, the Fianna Fáil-Fine Gael government is raking in even more revenue. Last week alone it took in an estimated €38 million extra in VAT.

READ NEXT: Donegal families in DCB homes face anxiety as heating oil now €850 for 500 litres

“Ministers cannot simply hold meetings and reviews while households struggle to heat their homes and fill their cars. Sinn Féin is calling on the government to scrap planned carbon tax increases, cut excise duty on petrol, diesel and home heating oil, and deliver additional supports for households struggling with soaring energy costs.

“My colleague Pa Daly has already introduced legislation in the Dáil to crack down on price gouging in the energy sector and strengthen the powers of the regulator to stop companies ripping off Irish households. 

“Families cannot afford more excuses. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael must act now to bring fuel costs down and protect workers and families from further hardship.”