Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2026
204. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will consider the implementation of an emergency cost-of-living payment in response to the increase in fuel prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27768/26]
View answer206. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to urgently deal with the cost-of-living crisis (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27803/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 204 and 206 together.
Over the last number of weeks Government has introduced two packages of supports to help mitigate the impact of rising energy prices. The latest package of measures, worth some €500 million, will provide additional support on top of last month’s package worth some €250 million.
Last month’s package of measures reduced the excise duty on fuel, increased the maximum repayment allowable under the Diesel Rebate Scheme and extended the fuel allowance by an additional four weeks.
The second package of measures introduced over the weekend has provided a further reduction in excise duty, bringing the total reduced amount to 32 cent per litre of diesel, 27 cent per litre of petrol and 7.4 cent per litre of green diesel. These reduced amounts include the reduction in the NORA levy which was announced as part of the first package of measures.
Government has also agreed to delay the increase in carbon tax to later in the year, while support schemes for the transportation and agricultural sectors will be introduced.
Government has introduced these measures in order to limit the negative impact on households and businesses. The measures are time-bound.
Government will continue to monitor the economic fall-out from the conflict in the Middle East.
