Leitrim divided as locals say fuel protests 'hitting the wrong people'

People in Leitrim are divided over ongoing fuel protests causing major traffic disruption across the country, with strong views emerging on both sides of the debate.

The protests, which began on Tuesday, have seen tractors, trucks and other vehicles form slow-moving convoys and block key routes, with gridlock reported in Dublin and at several locations nationwide.

On Wednesday afternoon, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the protests were "wrong" and warned that those breaking the law would face penalties.

"To prevent mobility, to prevent people from accessing livelihoods, medical appointments, disrupting day-to-day activities in the manner that has happened, is wrong and is a wrong form of protest," he said.

Tánaiste Simon Harris added that the disruption was "not in our national interest".

READ MORE | 'I think dialogue is always better than protests' - Leitrim haulier speaks on blockades

The debate has also been playing out locally, with readers sharing their views in response to a post on the Leitrim Observer / Leitrim Live Facebook page asking: "Do you agree with the fuel protests causing traffic tailbacks?"

Despite the disruption, many said they understand why protesters feel forced to take action amid rising fuel costs.

One person said: "Causing traffic tailbacks is part of the idea and reason for it. It needs to get a public reaction and that wouldn't happen if it didn't. People need to realise, when the hauliers and agri contractors etc stop, the country eventually will too."

Another added: "Government needs to listen to farmers, hauliers, etc protesting verbally hasn't worked so far, therefore the extreme measures being taken might make them take notice and action."

However, others said the disruption is hitting the wrong people.

"I agree 100% the cost of fuel needs to be capped at a reasonable price… but I don't agree with roads being completely blocked," one comment read.

Another said: "We should be protesting, but it should be those in a position to make changes that are inconvenienced, not people who agree with the cause."

Concerns were also raised about emergency services, with one person warning they would "shudder to think anyone suffering heart failure or stroke wouldn't make it to emergency care in time".

Other commenters were more blunt in their opposition.

"Protest at the ballot box not holding ordinary workers going to work," one person said, while another described the demonstrations as "a complete waste".

The protests are expected to continue, with organisers indicating further action could take place next week when the Dáil returns.