Mr Martin was confronted by a single fuel protestor as he arrived at Coláiste Íosagáin in Ballyvourney, Co Cork. Contractor Ger Murphy from Bandon challenged Mr Martin about what he was doing to tackle the fuel crisis. The Taoiseach warned the Whitegate oil refinery in east Cork is critical to the economy. People who need access to their jobs, access to the basic essentials of life like fuel and water. Earlier, local fuel protest spokesperson, Gearoid Crowley from Bantry, warned Irish consumers need to be aware of the impact of the fuel price surge on everything from goods to services.

Source: Irish Independent April 09, 2026 13:15 UTC