Fuel Shortages Continue as Protests Disrupt Deliveries

Fuel shortages are impacting petrol stations across Ireland, with protests blocking fuel depots and preventing essential deliveries. Martin McSorley, a fuel retailer, explained that while there is no actual fuel shortage, the protests are stopping supplies from reaching stations. As of now, five of his sites are out of fuel, and the remaining three are expected to run dry soon.

McSorley acknowledged public panic but stressed that much of it was unnecessary. "The public has been great in understanding, but we can’t get the fuel to our sites due to the blockades," he said. With no certainty about future deliveries, McSorley is left frustrated. While a delivery was expected today, it may not arrive until Tuesday.

The ongoing protests are causing widespread disruption, with people missing medical appointments, flights, and work-related travel. McSorley expressed concern over the impact on people’s daily lives, adding that the protests are doing more harm than good. "People need to travel for work and health reasons, and this is just making it worse," he said.

Regarding fuel prices, McSorley clarified that retailers are operating on very tight margins and dismissed accusations of price gouging. "We’re not benefiting from the price hikes," he explained, referencing a recent CCPC report confirming no evidence of gouging.

Tony Geelan of Geelans in Waddingtown told South East Radio News, "We sold out yesterday evening at 5.30. Our supplier Top Oil were due to deliver this morning but we have just been informed that their trucks are being held up all over the roads network and there is no guarantee we will get a delivery today. The area is quiet this morning after a huge surge of panic buying yesterday and in fairness everybody is very understanding of the situation here."

There are fears up to 500 petrol stations could run dry by the end of today, if protesters continue to block fuel ports.
The head of Fuels for Ireland says supply has already run out at over 100 forecourts nationwide, particularly in the west, and parts of Munster. 
 It comes as blockades at the country’s main depots and only oil refinery in Cork continue, on the fourth day of action.