Citizens are blocking traffic with tractors, buses, and heavy goods vehicles in cities across the country since Tuesday. The protests, aimed against rising fuel prices in Ireland, have been peaceful but are disrupting some people from carrying out their daily tasks. There are also reports of fuel depots being blocked as part of the protests.
"Since yesterday, the police have been in contact, and continue to be in contact, with those involved in fuel protests across the country, seeking to work with them to mitigate the negative impact these protests have on the lives of their communities," said a police spokesperson.
As they noted, the police have received reports of emergency service workers being delayed or unable to travel to work, and of people unable to attend hospital appointments or visit loved ones who are ill.
"Key public transport routes are also delayed or not functioning, meaning employees and businesses are severely affected. A small number of fuel depots are also blocked," it was added.
Today, Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan confirmed that the Irish Defence Forces will be called upon to remove any vehicles blocking fuel depots or vital infrastructure.
"Blocking critical national infrastructure will not be allowed to continue, and assistance from the Defence Forces has been requested," he said.
He added that large vehicles blocking critical infrastructure will be removed.
"The owners of these vehicles should remove them immediately this morning and should not later complain about any damage caused to these vehicles during removal," he added.