ICOS urges calm and measured judgement on all sides of fuel protest. Ports must be freed up

In advance of this afternoon’s meeting with the Government and stakeholders (to be attended by ICOS President Edward Carr, and CEO TJ Flanagan), Edward Carr called on all sides to approach the situation with calm and measured judgement, allowing space for constructive dialogue and a focus on keeping the country moving.

“We have huge concerns for all sectors of the community during these uncertain times. Co-operatives and their members are massively exposed to increased fuel and energy costs,” said Edward Carr.

“At the meeting we will call on the Government to continue to work to increase the level of supports.

“We request the government immediately and substantially to increase the flat rate addition for non-VAT registered farmers to compensate for the increased VAT associated with sky-high fuel prices.

“The situation is critical and in particular, all ports must be freed up. Feed Mills are shutting down due to lack of ingredients, diesel supplies are running out for hauliers and workers. The protesters have made their point with a maximum impact but they must also reflect very carefully on any extent to which the current levels of severe disruption could possibly continue.”

ICOS (the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society) represents co-operatives across Ireland, including dairy processing co-operatives and livestock marts. These organisations collectively generate approximately €16 billion in turnover, with 175,000 members and employment for 12,000 individuals in Ireland, plus an additional 24,000 overseas. In total, Ireland has around 1,000 co-ops, with the largest 100 employing roughly 40,000 people.