Solution needed today as fuel protests continue to escalate - Kerrane

A solution is needed today as fuel protests continue to escalate, Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has insisted. 

Speaking this afternoon Deputy Kerrane claimed that "every time Micheál Martin opened his mouth this week, more people joined the ongoing fuel protests. Rather than de-escalating the situation, he and Government have added fuel to the fire all week."

Deputy Kerrane described farmers  as "hardworking and decent" stressing that they weren't protesting for the fun of it, but rather out of desperation.

“For hauliers and farm contractors, their livelihoods are on the line," she said. "Living on a farm, my whole life, I know that farming is difficult work - even on the good days when prices are good. And so, we need a solution today. The solutions being sought are temporary. Government need to do everything in their power to reduce taxes on fuel. Every possible lever that can be pulled now needs to be," she insisted.

Deputy Kerrane went on to ask what was the EU doing for Members States like Ireland. “The Government have reminded us for two weeks now of their €250 million package. Spain have announced a package of 80 different measures worth €5 billion. Of course, I am not suggesting €5 billion needs to be spent but it shows how little the Irish Government have moved and it shows the need that is there," she said.

“We have a wealthy country, we have to be able to support our farmers on the bad days. Otherwise, what is the wealth generated for? From day one of this war, Government have been too slow.

“We need an announcement today that will end the protests and allow protesters to go home to their families," said Deputy Kerrane.