Ongoing Disgruntlement Over Fuel Protests

At Wexford County Councils meeting yesterday, tensions over the ongoing fuel protests reached a boiling point as two key motions on the issue failed to gain sufficient support.

Aontú Cllr Jim Codd strongly criticized the government's "heavy-handed" response to the protests, which have been driven by ordinary workers and families struggling with rising costs. Codd, who proposed a motion condemning the government's actions, expressed frustration that the protest had been ignored by the government, who only wanted to engage with official groups like the IFA and Irish Road Hauliers Association, despite the protest being about broader concerns.

Speaking from the meeting he said the people won't forget the governments response

Sinn Féin Cllr Aoife Rose O’Brien also introduced a motion to hold the government accountable, calling for a vote of no confidence in the coalition. However, her motion fell short by just one vote, with 16 in favor and 15 against. O'Brien was disappointed by the outcome, noting that the current government has mishandled the cost-of-living crisis and other issues like housing and healthcare. She said the people have spoken and they have no confidence in this government:

Meanwhile, Fine Gael Cllr Oliver Walsh, while empathising with the protesters, dismissed the motions as "populist" and criticized the council for spending too much time on national issues rather than focusing on local concerns. Walsh also expressed concern over the blockade tactics being used by protesters, particularly self-appointed wardens who were stopping people from going about their daily business.

Listen back on our podcast section for the full conversation from the Council Chambers