Macra has acknowledged the Irish government’s decision to reduce excise duty on petrol and diesel, but has warned that the measures do not go far enough to address the scale of rising fuel costs facing young people in rural Ireland.

The announcement comes in response to significant increases in energy prices, with fuel costs rising rapidly due to global instability and supply pressures.

While the reduction in excise duty will provide some relief, Macra has expressed disappointment both at the delay in introducing supports and at the limited scope of the measures.

Macra national president Josephine O’Neill said: “While we welcome the announcement of these measures, we do so with disappointment and frustration.

placeholder image — Macra president Josephine O’Neill

“While our young people and young farmers grapple with significant cost increases, the government has been too slow to provide meaningful supports. While these reductions will provide some benefit, it is also disappointing that young farmers and agricultural contractors are excluded from the diesel rebate scheme.”

For young people in rural areas, access to a car is essential, with limited public transport options available.

In addition, farm machinery relies heavily on fuel, representing a significant and unavoidable cost, as the busy tillage season begins and silage season looms.

Rising fuel prices are therefore having a direct impact on both daily living and farm operations.

Macra is calling on government to revisit the current measures to ensure they are adequate in scale and inclusive of those working in agriculture.

The organisation also urged that the impact of rising fuel costs on rural communities continues to be closely monitored, with further supports introduced where necessary.