Independent Ireland has said that government measures aimed at addressing rising fuel costs "fall short" for farmers and rural Ireland.

The party said farmers and rural communities are "facing unprecedented financial pressure" after fuel prices spiked in recent weeks due to the conflict in the Middle East.

The government yesterday (Tuesday, March 24) announced cuts to mineral oil tax (MOT) for petrol, diesel and green diesel and a cut to the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) levy.

The measures took effect from midnight and will remain in effect until May 31.

Fuel

However, Independent Ireland agriculture spokesperson Michael Fitzmaurice also said the response does not reflect the reality on the ground:

"While any reduction is welcome, the government’s approach simply does not go far enough.

"A token reduction of a few cent per litre will not make a meaningful difference to struggling farm families," he said.

The Roscommon-Galway TD added that the failure to act decisively "risks undermining food production and rural economies".

"We are seeing costs increase across the board, from diesel to fertiliser, and yet the supports being offered are minimal.

"Rural Ireland cannot be expected to carry this burden alone while government refuses to tackle the real issue, which is the level of taxation on fuel," he said.

Independent Ireland

Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins confirmed that the party has tabled "a comprehensive amendment" aimed at delivering real relief.

The amendment includes a proposal to abolish carbon tax on home heating oil and green diesel entirely.

The party also want all further scheduled increases in carbon tax to be scrapped.

"Our amendment sets out practical, targeted measures that would actually reduce costs for farmers and rural households," Deputy Collins said.