Stories

Tue, 14 Apr 2026

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 Fines issued after fuel protests across NI disrupt traffic

Drivers were fined and others cautioned for public order offences after the protests caused traffic disruption.

* Fines and cautions were issued by PSNI for public order offences during fuel protests in Northern Ireland, which caused traffic disruption across multiple roads.
* The protests were sparked by soaring fuel costs due to the US-Israel war with Iran, which has affected global oil prices.
* Farmers claim they are being hit on several fronts, including rising fuel and fertiliser prices, and called for lower fuel prices and government action to support them.
* First Minister Michelle O'Neill urged Sir Keir Starmer to act to cut taxes on fuel.
* Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said the protests were indicative of "frustration" over increasing costs and froze fares on public transport.
* Health Minister Mike Nesbitt warned that disruption could threaten life, particularly for healthcare workers trying to reach patients.
* Organisers say they are standing in solidarity with demonstrators in the Republic of Ireland who have been blocking fuel depots and motorways.
* Petrol prices in Northern Ireland have increased by 28.3p/litre (20%) since February, while diesel prices have risen by 52.9p/litre (40%).
* Businesses, including a Coleraine food supplier, are also feeling the pinch of rising fuel costs, with some reporting significant increases in their fuel bills.
* The first and deputy first minister have sent a joint letter to the prime minister calling for government intervention on rising costs.