Disruptions expected as fuel protests enter third day

Disruption is expected to continue as protests over rising fuel costs caused by war in Iran enter their third day.

Dublin Bus has advised customers that a number of road closures will remain in place this morning as a result of protests and that delays and disruptions are being experienced across the city.

"We wish to advise customers that due to fuel price protests, we are experiencing ongoing severe service disruptions and delays across the Dublin Bus network," Dublin Bus said in a statement.

Green line Luas trams are currently not operating between St Stephen's Green and Dominick due to the protest blocking the tracks at O'Connell Bridge.

The protests, which began on Tuesday, have involved slow-moving convoys on motorways as well as the blocking of major roads in Dublin and other cities.

Those taking part included hauliers and agricultural contractors using large trucks and tractors to disrupt traffic.

The demonstrations continued yesterday with escalations including the blockading of fuel depots at the Whitegate oil refinery in Co Cork, a move described by Taoiseach Micheál Martin as "an act of national sabotage".

Protestors yesterday caused gridlock around Dublin city centre and delays were reported in many other locations around the country.

Several tractors were parked along Dublin's O'Connell Street and buses were abandoned on O'Connell Bridge, as farmers and hauliers blocked the busy routes.

Protesters say they want to meet with the Government, but senior ministers say they will, and have, met with nationally representative bodies.

Fuel protests continued overnight in other parts of the country with over 100 farmers and contractors gathered at the docks in Galway city.

A large convoy of trucks and tractors remained in place overnight to block fuel coming into and out of the depot at Galway Port. Access through the docks was given to buses, cars and pedestrians at all times.

This protest focused solely on fuel.

Farmers, hauliers and contractors operated a rotating shift to ensure a continuous presence.

Many who took part had travelled from Mayo and remained overnight as the protest passed off without incident.

Some of those gathered said they remained more defiant in light of the Government agreeing to meet only nationally representative bodies.

Those protesting said these organisations do not support the protest and don't represent them.

Protestors added that they will continue their action until their demand is met for a price cap on both agricultural and white diesel.

Additional reporting Teresa Mannion, PA