Defence Forces Called In to Remove Vehicles Blocking Critical National Infrastructure
Defence Forces called in to forcibly remove vehicles from fuel blockades; owners warned not to complain about damage.
The Defence Forces have been called in to assist An Garda Síochána in removing large vehicles blocking critical national infrastructure as fuel protests enter their third day.
Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan confirmed the move in a statement issued on 9 April 2026 by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.
The Minister confirmed that An Garda Síochána has formally requested the assistance of the Defence Forces through the C70 process, the established legal mechanism through which Gardaí can request military aid to the civil power.
"The blocking of critical national infrastructure will not be permitted to continue and the assistance of the Defence Forces has been requested," the statement read.
Large vehicles blocking critical infrastructure will be removed. Owners of those vehicles should remove them immediately this morning and should not complain later about any damage caused to those vehicles during removal.
Denying people access to fuel and clean water is an unacceptable interference in the most basic of human rights."
The move comes after protesters blockaded the Irving Oil Whitegate Refinery in east Cork, Ireland's only oil refinery, as well as fuel terminals in Foynes, Co Limerick and Galway. Approximately 50% of Ireland's fuel supplies are currently unable to reach forecourts as a result of the blockades, according to Fuels for Ireland.
Under Irish law, the Defence Forces may assist An Garda Síochána when requested and when required, with each request made through the formal C70 process.
Last updated: 10:05 IST, 9 April 2026
