The Irish Road Haulage Association has expressed disappointment with tonight’s remarks from the Minister for Finance Charlie McCreevy that he will not make tax concessions on fuel in the Irish sector. The Road Haulage Association has warned that as a last resort, it may be forced to stage a 'French style' blockade if Minister McCreevy doesn't change his stance.
As the protests continue on the continent, Irish Road Hauliers are preparing to meet in the morning to discuss what action they should pursue. They say they regret the Ministers remarks at such a volatile time and are concerned that they may be forced to follow their continental counterparts. While the association says its stance is not to organise any protests, Association president, Gerry McMahon has said that it may be forced to go down that road if there is no change from the Government. Hauliers outside the Irish Road Haulage Association are understood to be considering staging a protest and have already met.
During the day, the price of oil did drop by over $2 a barrel following yesterday's 10 year high of £34.5. This drop was attributable to Saudi Arabia agreeing to increase its output by 700,000 barrels per day more than their normal quota. But the Saudi Oil Minister has also called on the West to do its part, that is cut tax on fuel.
