Gardaí have confirmed that they have received reports of emergency workers being delayed or left unable to travel to work as a result of the ongoing fuel price protests.
Gardaí have also said they have received reports of people not being able to attend hospital appointments or visit loved ones who are ill.
In a statement this afternoon, a spokesperson said: “An Garda Síochána has been engaging with, and continues to engage with, those involved in the fuel protests around the country, seeking to work with them to mitigate the negative impact these protests are having on the lives of their communities.
While these protests have been peaceful, they are causing significant disruption for people in some parts of the country.”
Key public transports routes are also delayed or not operating, which means that employees and businesses are heavily impacted. A small number of fuel depots are also being blocked.
While An Garda Síochána respects and facilitates the right to peaceful protest, An Garda Síochána must also balance and protect the rights of individuals to travel freely and commercial organisations to conduct business.”
The spokesperson continued: “An Garda Síochána has asked and asks again for protestors to engage with Gardaí locally to facilitate public transport and other traffic.
An Garda Síochána has also received reports of the blocking of diversion routes put in place to facilitate travel around protests.”
Protesters blocked the several interchanges on the M18 in Clare today while a slow moving vehicles, operated by protesters, then held up motorists forced to take diversion routes.
Some drivers opted to mount embankments to try and circumnavigate blockages on the M18 at Dromoland today while there were heated exchanges between motorists and protesters at Junction 11 on the motorway.
Gardaí are asking that protestors engage with Gardaí locally to facilitate important diversion and emergency routes.
An Garda Síochána has no role in permitting or authorising public gatherings or protests. There is no permit required in order to organise any protest.
Any Garda activity in relation to evolving events involves a graduated policing response taking into account relevant legislation and public safety.
Gardaí say they will continue to provide updates, where possible, to the public, through our social media channels.
