LIMERICK commuters are facing huge delays this morning as local and nationwide protests get underway to address the rising cost of fuel following the war in Iran.
The protests were organised by a group of professional drivers, hauliers, farmers, bus operators, taxis and plant operators called The People of Ireland Against Fuel Prices Protest.
Demonstrations on main routes to the outskirts of Limerick city began at 8 am this morning.
Affected routes include Beary’s Cross to Ballysimon on the N24, Daly’s Cross to Annacotty on the Old Dublin Road, Croom to Patrickswell on the M20 and Bunratty Village in Co Clare to travel on the N18.
David Conway, Chair of the Coach Tourism and Transport Council of Ireland (CTTC) said they acknowledged the protest and the broader financial strain being experienced across the transport sector.
“There is no doubt that bus and coach operators are facing sustained and serious cost pressures, and are dealing with a very challenging operating environment. That said, the CTTC is not involved in the planning or coordination of this protest and we will not be taking part in it. We would ask protestors to keep bus lanes clear so that buses and coaches can move freely around the country and help keep Ireland moving.”
Our efforts remain firmly directed towards working with Government, in particular the Department of Finance, and the Department of Transport, to seek practical measures that will assist our members during this period of exceptional cost inflation.
“We recently held constructive discussions with the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, and further engagement is expected in the short term. These discussions are important, and we are continuing to make the case for targeted support to help coach and bus operators manage the impact of rising fuel and operating costs. It is the CTTC’s objective to ensure that the voice of the coach and bus sector is heard clearly”, Mr Conway added.
“We are committed to ensuring that the necessary supports are put in place to protect scheduled services, school transport and coach tourism services, and the viability of operators. The CTTC will continue to advocate strongly on behalf of its members, at the highest levels of Government, and pursue measures that respond to current cost challenges, while supporting the continued delivery of essential passenger transport services across the country.”