Taoiseach Martin Announces «Substantial Packages» for Agriculture, Transport Amid Fuel Costs

Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced that «substantial packages» for the agriculture and transport sectors will be revealed next week to address rising fuel costs. Speaking in Cyprus during an informal European Council meeting, Martin stated these packages will significantly reduce the cost of Marked Gas Oil (MGO), also known as green diesel.

This follows a €505 million support package that cut excise duties on petrol and diesel. Tánaiste Simon Harris confirmed details on agriculture and transport schemes are forthcoming. Martin outlined support for contractors, farmers, and hauliers, noting the Department of Transport's package was nearly ready, while the Department of Agriculture's, led by Minister Martin Heydon, required more development due to less prior experience with such crises.

Martin ruled out a «mini budget» but emphasized a «structured approach to energy costs» with targeted measures, citing strong economic advice. While excise duty reductions were universal, he did not rule out energy credits in the upcoming Budget. Martin's trip to Cyprus followed a meeting with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Greece.