Irish police chief denounces oil refinery blockade

The head of Ireland’s police force, Justin Kelly, has strongly criticised fuel protesters, warning that their actions are “endangering the state” after blockades disrupted key energy infrastructure.

Speaking on Saturday, Kelly said demonstrators had targeted critical sites, including the Whitegate Refinery, leading to fuel shortages that are affecting essential services such as hospitals, ambulances and fire departments.

The protests, which began earlier this week over rising petrol and diesel prices linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict, have seen activists block access to refineries and fuel depots, while also causing traffic disruption through motorway convoys and tractor blockades in Dublin.

Authorities confirmed that police units were deployed to clear blockades and restore fuel supplies, with several arrests made during operations. Kelly described the actions as illegal and accused some protesters of attempting to “hold the country to ransom.”

Industry groups reported that around 100 petrol stations, mainly in western Ireland, have run out of fuel amid panic buying.

The Irish government had previously announced a €250 million support package to ease fuel costs, including measures aimed at assisting transport operators.