Cork Forecourts Running Low on Fuel as Shortages Begin to Bite

Petrol and diesel shortages are emerging at forecourts across Cork and other parts of the country, as the ongoing blockades at key fuel terminals continue to prevent supplies from reaching filling stations.

CSA has received multiple reports from readers of queues at garages across Cork, with some stations already running out of diesel. Locations including Ladysbridge and Killeagh in east Cork have been cited by readers as affected, with concerns that unleaded petrol will follow.

Fuels for Ireland CEO Kevin McPartlan has said he is aware of forecourts that have already run out of fuel, warning the situation could worsen significantly if supplies are not unblocked. The blockades at Whitegate, Foynes, and Galway have locked up approximately half of Ireland's fuel supplies, preventing tankers from reaching service stations.

There is no shortage of fuel in the country itself; the issue is a supply problem, with fuel paid for by retailers simply unable to reach its destination. However, McPartlan warned that blockages at the Whitegate refinery could lead to busier Cork forecourts struggling to meet demand, and raised concerns that emergency service vehicles would have no access to the site in the event of an emergency.

Prices for petrol have risen from an average of approximately €1.72 in February to around €2 at some forecourts by the end of March, while diesel rose from €1.73 to as much as €2.30.

The public is advised to check their fuel levels and plan ahead, particularly those in rural areas or with essential travel requirements this weekend.

If you have noticed shortages or long queues at your local garage, let us know in the comments below.