Chambers Ireland responds to Government action on fuel costs and urges protestors to restore order and end all nationwide blockades

Chambers Ireland responds to Government action on fuel costs and urges protestors to restore order and end all nationwide blockades

Chambers Ireland, the network that represents businesses across Ireland, has today welcomed the government’s interventions on fuel costs and urged protestors to end the disruption that has brought many parts of the country to a standstill over recent days.

The widespread travel delays and the obstruction of critical infrastructure by protestors have had a significant and damaging effect on businesses over recent days with deliveries, productivity and operations impacted. Logistics, manufacturing, retail and hospitality sectors have all faced mounting pressures as a result. Households have also faced challenges getting to and from work, accessing critical goods and services, and carrying out essential daily tasks. The disruption has compounded business and consumer concerns around fuel and escalating costs.

Acknowledging the action by Government, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, Ian Talbot, commented:

“The concessions that have been made by Government today represent an important intervention to address the considerable concerns of many businesses and households surrounding rising costs and the impact of inflated fuel prices over recent weeks. However, the chaos that has ensued on our roads, around our fuel depots, and in our town and city centres over the last few days has impacted business continuity and knocked public confidence.

We are relieved that a compromise has been reached and that stability can hopefully be restored across the country. What we need now is for ongoing, constructive dialogue to continue.

Government have listened and taken action in response to the public’s concern about fuel prices but they can’t continue to shield the economy if global disruption continues. Reciprocal concessions must now be made by protestors with the calm and coordinated end of all national blockades. This must be the beginning of a longer-term, sustainable approach to ensuring energy affordability and addressing the rising cost of doing business. Our economic resilience depends on it.”

ENDS