Gridlock: how will the fuel protests end?

In the News podcast: Government rejects talks with protesters

Listen | 21:44
People with their luggage walk past the heavy traffic on Dublin's M50 Northbound, due to vehicles taking part on the third day of a protest against rising fuel prices. Photograph: Brian Lawless/PA Wire
People with their luggage walk past the heavy traffic on Dublin's M50 Northbound, due to vehicles taking part on the third day of a protest against rising fuel prices. Photograph: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

On Thursday, as fuel protests over the Government’s response to rising petrol and diesel prices entered their third day, it became clear that the demands of the protesters showed no signs of being met.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said protesters blocking cities and towns are “wrong” and those breaking the law will be penalised.

Several distinct but co-ordinated protests took place over the past three days, involving slow-moving convoys on motorways, such as the M1 and M50, as well as the blocking of main roads in Dublin.

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

Irish Times political editor Pat Leahy analyses the political reaction and Colm Keena explains who the protesters are and what they want.

Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Suzanne Brennan.

Bernice Harrison

Bernice Harrison

Bernice Harrison is an Irish Times journalist and cohost of In the News podcast

OUR PODCASTS