Harris indicates further budget measures on fuel poverty

Tánaiste Simon Harris has signaled that the Irish government is prepared to take further action to address fuel poverty, with new measures likely to be included in Budget 2027. Speaking on Tuesday, Harris acknowledged the volatile nature of global energy markets, noting that fuel prices are in a "very different place" compared to when the decision was made to gradually restore excise duties on petrol and diesel starting September 1.

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You can see how quickly the global environment can change in four to six weeks. So we have to be humble, agile, and nimble enough to respond to things.

"You can see how quickly the global environment can change in four to six weeks," Harris stated. "So we have to be humble, agile, and nimble enough to respond to things." He highlighted the existing fuel allowance scheme, which he said benefits more people than ever and will recommence shortly. "And again, further measures around that can be considered in the budget because the budget is the next milestone," he added, emphasizing the government's commitment to supporting vulnerable households.

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We obviously have the fuel allowance scheme, which more people than ever before benefit from this season, which will recommence again shortly. And again, further measures around that can be considered in the budget because the budget is the next milestone.

Regarding the carbon tax, the Minister for Finance confirmed that no final decision has been reached on whether to proceed with the next scheduled increase in October. However, he reiterated his support for the tax, explaining its origins predated current geopolitical conflicts. "Carbon tax was brought about... and the trajectory was set before there was a war in Ukraine, before there was the situation in the Middle East," Harris said. "So there are policy options for Government to consider, and Government will consider all of them in the round. None of them are free."

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Carbon tax was brought about... and the trajectory was set before there was a war in Ukraine, before there was the situation in the Middle East. So there are policy options for Government to consider, and Government will consider all of them in the round. None of them are free.