There is growing alarm in the Government as nationwide fuel protests escalate, with the Taoiseach describing the blockade of a key refinery in Cork as “national sabotage”.

Fuels for Ireland has called on the government to undertake an immediate review of all tax and compliance costs associated with transport fuel and home-heating oil.

Around half of Ireland's fuel supplies are currently inaccessible due to ongoing protests at terminals and the Whitegate refinery, prompting calls for government intervention from Fuels For Ireland.

There has been a rapid rise in the cost of motor fuel and home heating oil due to the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Protesters have blocked access to fuel terminals in Ireland, leading to disappointment from Fuels for Ireland regarding the garda response and concerns that fuel supplies to forecourts could be crippled.

Fuels for Ireland CEO Kevin McPartlan said although crude oil prices have increased substantially, this will have little impact on the wholesale prices.