*Tailbacks on the M18. Photograph: Joe Buckley
ONGOING fuel protests are causing “widespread damage” to the Clare economy according to Ennis Chamber.
Hotels in Ennis are beginning to receive cancellations as a direct result of the ongoing fuel protests blocking roads across the country. Other businesses have reported issues with supply chains and reduced consumer activity.
Ennis Chamber has said there has been “widespread damage” to the economy in Clare with a strain on businesses, workers and supply chains following four days of protesting and road blocks. The business lobby group called for constructive dialogue to try de-escalate the situation.
CEO of Ennis Chamber, Margaret O’Brien told The Clare Echo, “The prolonged protests on transport networks and at fuel depots are placing significant strain on businesses, workers and supply chains. The protests have led to extensive traffic delays and disruption that are having considerable knock-on effects”.
She added, “Many of our member businesses are reporting issues with their supply chains, reduced consumer activity and difficulties for staff commuting to and from work. We recognise that fuel price increases over recent weeks are having a significant impact on energy intensive businesses, SMEs and vulnerable consumers, but road blockades are compounding those issues at present. This issue needs to be resolved through constructive dialogue”.
Clare’s tourism sector is feeling the consequences of the road blocks. Allen Flynn, owner of the Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, confirmed they have started to receive cancellations since Thursday for this weekend. “There’s a festival on in Ennis this weekend and because of that we have a more than usual reliance on bookings from the domestic market, with cancellations to date primarily from those festival goers, as people become nervous about availability of fuel”.
According to O’Brien, “Constructive engagement offers the best path forward. We need to see a shift towards solutions that protect both livelihoods and economic stability”.
Ian Talbot, CEO, Chambers Ireland stated, “Our economy relies on the efficient movement of people and goods, and any prolonged impact to this freedom risks undermining business confidence. We appreciate the impact that fuel price increases are continuing to have on businesses and consumers across the country, but the latest protests are intensifying supply constraints and creating undue uncertainty. We fully respect the right to protest but it is essential that it is exercised in a way that does not bring widespread disruption to the broader public and economy. This current situation is not sustainable”.
