PRESSURE is mounting on the Government to reduce the tax take on fuel as prices soar, with some Cork politicians accusing fuel companies of ‘price gouging’ and ‘profiteering’ from the war in Iran.

Motorists have been hit hard at the pumps across West Cork with the price of both diesel and petrol having skyrocketed over the past two weeks, with some paying almost €2.23 per litre at one outlet, while quotes for home heating oil have also increased dramatically.

Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins highlighted in the Dáil the case of West Cork pensioner who told him that her quote for home heating oil increased by almost €100 only hours after she received a quote for a lesser amount from the same provider.

Deputy Collins accused the Government of ‘undeniable complicity’ in the imposition of extortionate energy bills on Irish household and businesses following its refusal to consider his request to suspend upcoming carbon tax increase on May 1st.

‘We can all see that the Iranian conflict is not going to end any time soon,’ he said. ‘Even if it does the damage is already done in terms of the way it has provided an alibi for Government and energy providers to jack-up prices and to continue placing their boot on the neck of the ordinary household or small business.’

Fuel prices across West Cork have risen dramatically in the past few days. It comes as crude oil has risen to over $100 per barrel, due to the war in Iran. Top Fuel in Leap price board this morning. Picture: Andy Gibson.

Cork North West Sinn Féin Senator Nicole Ryan accused energy companies of ‘exploiting international events while the Government refuses to intervene’ and said it looks like ‘blatant price gouging’ and a ‘brazen rip-off happening in plain sight.’

‘Some families are reporting increases of hundreds of euros for a heating oil delivery, while motorists are also seeing sharp rises at the pumps. I experienced it myself this week. I ordered heating oil on Tuesday and was quoted €1.32 per litre. By Wednesday that price had jumped to €1.52 per litre.’

She added that instead of the Government asking regulators to review the marker, they must take direct action to protect families.

Independent Cllr Alan Coleman said the Government needs to take immediate actions to reduce the tax take on fuel as an emergency measure to give some relief to the public who are ‘reeling from the soaring price rises.

‘There’s no doubt that profiteering is going on but the biggest bonanza is going into the Government’s coffers.’