Following a major cross-sector meeting held over the weekend in Portlaoise, attended by more than 400 representatives from construction, haulage, plant hire and general transport, a clear and unified message has emerged — the Government’s inaction on fuel costs is now pushing critical sectors of the economy to the brink.
Industry leaders spoke candidly about the relentless and unsustainable rise in diesel and petrol prices, warning that current cost levels are actively undermining the construction sector’s ability to deliver on housing, infrastructure and national development targets.
There was also notable frustration at the absence of political representation. Not a single representative from Irish Government, Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, Labour Party (Ireland), Sinn Féin, or other left-wing TDs attended the meeting—despite the scale and urgency of the issues being discussed. In contrast, there was a strong and engaged presence from Independent Ireland representatives, who took the time to listen directly to industry concerns.
Recent analysis indicates that the State is benefiting by in excess of €1.15 per litre in taxation on diesel, with similar burdens placed on petrol and green diesel—the essential fuel powering construction equipment. For many in attendance, this has become a central point of contention, with calls for immediate intervention growing louder.
Speaking after the meeting, Brian Coogan of Machinery Movers Magazine did not hold back in his assessment.
“This is no longer just a cost issue — it is a failure of leadership,” he said. “The Government cannot continue to benefit from excessive taxation on fuel while the very industries that underpin the economy are being squeezed to breaking point.”
He continued: “We are calling for immediate and decisive action — whether that is a cap, a rebate mechanism, or a restructuring of how fuel is taxed. What the industry needs now is certainty, not continued delay.”
Coogan warned that failure to act could trigger serious and avoidable economic consequences.
“If this continues unchecked, we are looking at a slowdown — if not a collapse — in key sectors that Ireland depends on. Construction, transport and plant hire are not optional parts of the economy; they are fundamental to its survival.”
Drawing parallels with recent history, he added: “We have seen the damage that poor decision-making can cause. The last time the industry faced this level of pressure was during COVID, when shutdowns and inflation combined to create lasting damage. There is no justification for allowing history to repeat itself when action can be taken now.”
The message from Portlaoise was clear: the industry is united, the pressure is building, and patience is running out.
