Fuel Prices Ireland: Diesel & Petrol Set to Rise – Protests Paused

Fuel Prices Surge in Ireland, Hauliers Pause Protest as Government Considers Support

Irish motorists are facing significantly higher fuel costs this month, with diesel prices jumping to an average of €1.90 per litre and petrol reaching €1.81, according to the latest AA Ireland fuel price survey. The increases, reported on March 18, 2026, are putting pressure on household budgets and prompting concern within the haulage industry.

The surge in diesel prices is particularly acute, exceeding €2 per litre in some areas, according to the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA). This rise is attributed to a combination of factors, including the tax mix and a recent surge in the price of refined diesel. Petrol prices have also increased, rising by eight cents per litre compared to February.

The Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association (CSNA), representing over 1,500 retailers including 300 filling stations, warned of further increases, stating that wholesale diesel prices will rise by an average of 6.99 cent per litre from midnight tonight and a further 6.30 cent tomorrow night. Unleaded petrol will increase by 3.02 cent per litre tonight and 1.8 cent tomorrow night. CSNA President Vincent Jennings described the increases as “absolutely horrendous,” emphasizing that retailers are simply passing on costs dictated by suppliers.

In response to the escalating prices, hauliers initially threatened protest action but have paused those plans while the government considers measures to address the crisis. A delegation from the IRHA met with Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien on Thursday, March 19, 2026 and IRHA President Ger Hyland expressed satisfaction that “substantial support” for the sector will be announced next week. The hauliers are seeking “emergency measures” to mitigate the impact of the price hikes, which they attribute to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

While Minister O’Brien ruled out a temporary suspension of the carbon tax increase, he indicated that options under consideration include a reduction in excise duty or an excise rebate. He emphasized the importance of the haulage sector to Ireland’s supply chains and economy, stating that the government is looking at a “package in the round” to address the issue.

Fuels for Ireland, an industry representative group, acknowledged the difficulties faced by both hauliers and households. CEO Kevin McPartlan called for “immediate intervention” to alleviate the burden of high fuel costs, but also advocated for a comprehensive review of taxation and compliance costs to ensure affordability in the long term. McPartlan noted that consumers are making decisions about essential activities, such as driving children to school or delivering goods, based on fuel prices.

The situation highlights the vulnerability of the Irish economy to global energy market fluctuations. While the government is exploring short-term solutions, the need for a broader, more sustainable approach to energy pricing and security is becoming increasingly apparent. The coming days will be crucial as the government finalizes its response and hauliers await details of the promised support package. Any lack of substantial action by Tuesday evening could see protest action resume.