Rising pump prices continue to place "significant pressure" on motorists and farmers, despite a second round of government tax relief measures, according to AA Ireland’s latest fuel analysis.

The latest data from the insurer, released yesterday (April 14) shows that diesel prices remain elevated at approximately €2.14/L on average in April, having increased by 24 cents from March levels.

AA Ireland’s analysis also found that petrol has also risen to €1.91/L, up 10 cents month-on-month.

A statement from AA Ireland said: “These increases had already overtaken the initial round of tax relief introduced in late March, prompting further government intervention in recent days".

The analysis found the following key changes from March to April of this year:

Diesel: €2.14/L on average in April (up 24 cents from €1.90/L in March);
Petrol: €1.91/L on average in April (up 10 cents from €1.81/L in March);
EV charging: Home and pay-as-you-go (PAYG) public charging prices remain broadly stable in contrast to volatile fuel prices.

The government announced an additional package of fuel-related measures, which come into effect from midnight last night (April 14).

These include a further 10 cents per litre reduction in excise duty on petrol and diesel, as well as additional support for green diesel users.

Pressure

An AA Ireland spokesperson said: “Motorists are continuing to feel the pressure, with diesel prices remaining well above the €2 per litre mark."

"The government’s latest intervention will provide some short-term relief. The scale and speed of recent increases mean many drivers are still paying significantly more than earlier this year.

“The introduction of a second round of tax relief within weeks highlights the severity of the situation.

AA Ireland noted that fuel prices continue to be influenced by global oil market trends, geopolitical tensions, and currency fluctuations, with Brent crude trading above $100 per barrel.

It said that these factors are likely to sustain volatility in the weeks ahead, meaning that further price movements remain possible.

Advice

The insurer offered some advice for motorists.

“With fuel prices rising for the fourth consecutive month, it’s more important than ever for motorists to shop around where possible,” the AA Ireland spokesperson said.

"Even small savings per litre can make a meaningful difference over time.”

The spokesperson added that drivers can also help reduce fuel consumption and running costs by adopting more fuel-efficient habits, such as:

Driving smoothly and avoiding harsh acceleration or braking;
Maintaining a steady speed where possible;
Removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle;
Avoiding excessive idling;
Planning journeys to reduce unnecessary mileage.

AA Ireland also added that vehicle maintenance plays an important role.

“Simple checks such as maintaining the correct tyre pressure, ensuring the engine is properly serviced, and replacing worn air filters can all help improve fuel efficiency,” the spokesperson said.

“Keeping tyres properly inflated and ensuring the vehicle is running efficiently can make a noticeable difference to fuel usage over time.”