Call for review of taxes and levies on fuels as families in Dundalk struggle with costs

Cllr Robert Nash, Fine Gael Councillor for Dundalk South, has said that rising oil prices linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East are causing serious anxiety for families across Dundalk who are already struggling with the cost of living, and has called for a review of taxes and levies applied to fuel prices.

Cllr Nash said he has been contacted by a number of concerned constituents in recent days who are worried about the rising cost of fuel and the possibility that they may not be able to afford to adequately heat their homes or in some cases commute to work.

The Fine Gael councillor told the Dundalk Democrat: “As a father of five myself, I fully understand the concerns people have about the rising cost of fuel and the impact it is having on households,” said Cllr Nash.

“Whether it is the increased cost for someone commuting to work, business owners in the transport sector, or people trying to heat their homes or offices, the sharp rise in fuel prices is having a very real and detrimental impact on people’s finances.”

Cllr Nash said that in an already inflated economy, where the cost of goods and services has risen significantly, he fears this latest increase could become a tipping point for families who are already under pressure.

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“Over the past three years many families have been dealing with rising costs across the board — from consumer goods and energy bills to basic services such as GP visits, dental care and childcare,” he said.

“I am extremely concerned that some families may soon be forced to choose between food, electricity and heating in the months ahead. I believe there is more the Government can do to support people during this difficult period.”

Cllr Nash acknowledged that previous cost-of-living support packages introduced by the Government had been beneficial, but said similar or further action may now be required.

“During times of crisis such as this, I believe the taxes and levies applied to fuel prices need to be reviewed. In Ireland, a significant proportion of the price of motor fuel — and to a lesser extent heating fuel — is made up of Government taxes and charges, in some cases accounting for more than 50% of the overall cost.

“If the Government is serious about helping struggling families, then steps must be taken to examine whether these taxes and levies can be temporarily reduced or waived.”

The councillor confirmed that he has “already raised the issue with my TD Deputy Paula Butterly and asked that the concerns of local families be brought to the attention of the relevant Government department”.

Addressing ongoing speculation about possible price gouging within the fuel industry, Cllr Nash said he welcomes investigations by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) into illegal practices in the energy sector.

However, he noted that the process often relies heavily on whistleblowers, which he believes may present a significant obstacle.

Cllr Nash concluded by saying that the only immediate relief for many families is that the country is now moving into the spring months. "The one saving grace is that we are now in March and hopefully the worst of the winter weather is behind us. 

"I hope that by the end of the summer we will see a resolution to the conflict in the Middle East and a long-term path toward peace in the region.”