gridlock Truckers vow to impose complete lockdown on Dublin 'for as long as it takes'

Irish truckers have vowed to impose a complete lockdown on Dublin next month “for as long as it takes” until demands for a cap on fuel prices are met. 

The Irish Truckers and Haulage Association have organised the protest for Monday, April 11 as part of their action against rising fuel prices.

They have called for other industries to support their campaign and urged members to bring “food and refreshments” as they plan to camp out for up to two weeks.

“Dublin will be in complete lockdown and for as long as it takes until our demands are agreed upon by Government!” the group declared in a Facebook post.

“We have picked Monday the 11th as it will not interfere with school kids getting to and from School. This will also allow for Bus Operators to attend.

“We would advise if you had an appointment in Dublin that week that you reschedule where possible. For those making essential journeys please give extra travel time.

“We will have no spokesperson as we want The Nation to be addressed on this matter.

“You will see people and vehicles from all sectors and organisations as well as Individual member of the public. From Farmers, Fishing Operators, Truckers & Hauliers, Taxis, Busses, Nurses & Private Care Workers, Builders, Plant Operators and so on.

“We ask you all to show support.”

In the comments section of the post, they added: “When we reach our destination we will stop, lock up and not move for as long as it take.

“If it takes 2 weeks we have all agreed to stay!!!! We will need food and refreshments also!!

“Calling on local shops and resteraunts (sic) to support us.”

Among the demands made by the group are that petrol is capped at €1.10 per litre, diesel capped at €1.20 per litre, green diesel capped at 65c per litre and home heating capped at 65c per litre.

“These figures are inclusive of VAT and are for everyone at home and at the pump," they added.

They also want carbon tax to be scrapped and Eamon Ryan "to step down with immediate effect".

In a further rallying city they added: "It is up to you.... we have tried twice already and now is the time.

"These are the plans, they won't be changed so do your bit and leave no stone unturned. It is impossible to please everyone.

"This is an opportunity to make a change so let's stand together!"

The truckers group have been calling for lower fuel prices since last November, when the capital was brought to standstill with convoys arriving from all over Ireland.

They also caused traffic chaos when they last protested in December, shutting down parts of the Port Tunnel in Dublin for several hours.