Fuel price protesters in Dublin city centre have vowed to stay for the "long haul" and warned that if it takes two weeks they will still be there.

One of the key routes in Dublin city centre remained shut down today (Thursday, April 9) as protesters kept O’Connell Street and O’Connell Bridge blocked by tractors and lorries.

According to one protester "spirits are high".

Speaking to Agriland today other protesters said that they were determined to stay for as long as it takes and are angry that the government "is out of touch with reality".

Many felt that they had no choice but to travel to Dublin to highlight their personal circumstances - despite the fact that it would cost them, because they are losing out on work while they are there.

The main group behind the protests - The People Of Ireland Against Fuel Prices Protest - confirmed this evening that they will continue again tomorrow (Friday, April 10).

In a statement issued on social media the group urged the government to "really engage with us to stop this".

"Remember we did not cause this and it is only going to get bigger and bigger every week if it comes to it," the group added on social media.

The People Of Ireland Against Fuel Prices Protest also stated on social media that: "Families, workers, farmers, hauliers, recovery drivers, fishermen, builders, small businesses, and ordinary people can no longer carry the burden of crippling fuel prices, rising costs, and endless taxes".

Gardaí

Earlier today An Garda Síochána advised fuel protestors to immediately cease blockades of critical infrastructure or "face the full rigours of the law".

It also outlined that it is operating the "4 Es" model – "engage, explain, encourage, enforce" in respect of the fuel price protests.

According to An Garda Síochána "following positive engagement some critical deliveries" departed Foynes Port in Co. Limerick earlier this afternoon.

However it has also advised that "policing is moving into enforcement stage" in relation to the protests.

Additional reporting: Conor Galligan and Orlaith Kirby