The continuation of fuel price protests across the country’s motorway network and ports puts feed imports and milk collections at risk, Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon has claimed.

He condemned the protests now in their second day.

Minister Heydon’s disapproval of the protesters comes as O’Connell Street remains blocked and protesters have reportedly refused to allow fuel tankers access Galway port.

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It also follows a stern warning issued by Taoiseach Micheál Martin that those blocking roadways, ports and fuel depots could be penalised for their actions.

'Serious potential implications'

“The blockage of the ports by protestors, who are stopping the transportation of feed ingredients to feed mills and merchants, has serious potential implications for pig and poultry farmers, in particular,” Minister Heydon said on Wednesday.

“Further to the above, I have received reports that milk is not being collected from some dairy farmers, denying them a means to make their living.

“Government is managing this issue in real time and are currently spending €4m a day in supporting all sectors of society.”

A meeting of farm sector stakeholders has been convened for Friday to discuss fuel concerns as Minister Heydon pledged to maintain “close and continuous engagement” with farmers and the wider industry to ensure Government responds “appropriately”.

Shortage fears

Senior Government ministers met Wednesday to identify the sectors of the economy to be prioritised, if fuel supplies were to reach critically low levels in the weeks and months ahead.

The farming and haulage sectors are among those currently earmarked for priority access to fuel, should shortages come as a result of conflict in the Middle East and the impact that recent conflict has had on energy infrastructure in some Middle Eastern countries.

Government created a farm contracting working group this week to “address sector-specific challenges”.

Minister Heydon also said that Government recognises that liquidity is a key concern during periods of volatility, such as the current energy and fuel related cost and availability concerns.

“Access to finance is critical at times like this. I will be engaging with financial institutions to ensure that farmers and agri-food businesses are supported through short-term pressures and that flexibility is provided where needed.”