Louis O'Hara
Question:222. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to outline the measures his Department will take to address the rising cost-of-living; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40151/26]
View answerTuesday, 26 May 2026
Questions (222)
Written answers
Government is acutely aware that households and businesses are feeling the impact of rising energy prices.
Government has already intervened to help absorb the impact of rising energy prices with two packages of measures worth over €750 million.
The first package of supports introduced in March reduced the excise on fuel, cut the NORA levy to a nominal amount, enhanced the diesel rebate scheme and extended the fuel allowance season by an additional four weeks.
The second package of measures introduced in April further cut the tax on fuel bringing the total reduction in diesel to 32 cent per litre, 27 cent per litre of petrol and 7.4 cent per litre of green diesel.
Government also delayed the scheduled carbon tax increase to later in the year, while supports schemes targeted at the agricultural and transportation sectors were also introduced. The Road Transporters Support Scheme will provide direct payments to haulage and coach operators, while the Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme will assist farmers, agricultural contractors and fishers.
The measures introduced in response to rising energy prices are deliberately time-bound and will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.
Government will continue to monitor the situation and adjust its response as appropriate. This will allow us to respond swiftly and decisively whilst ensuring our overall approach to budgetary policy remains sustainable and balanced.