'Skyrocketing': Call for fuel taxes to be cut in Kildare

A County Kildare activist has called on the government to "step up" and cut fuel taxes with immediate effect.

James Stokes, Sinn Féin Area Representative for Newbridge, echoed his party colleague, Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh TD, in criticising the government.

And also in a similar manner to the Deputy, he has demanded the government to take action over the fuel price hikes which are currently gripping Ireland.

READ NEXT: Shock felt across Kildare as oil prices shoot up by more than 80 per cent in one week

Elaborating on his views, Mr Stokes said: "With prices skyrocketing, it’s putting a real squeeze on everyday workers, families, and small businesses.

"The government can’t keep turning a blind eye to the widespread effects these rising fuel costs are having on our communities."

He continued: "As folks head out over the coming days to fill up their tanks on the way to work or dropping kids at school, or as they’re heating oil tanks at home need a refill, families are really feeling the pinch with every extra euro spent; that’s cash that could be going toward the weekly shop, paying the electric bill, or just the basics we all need.

"Ordinary people and families can’t just soak up these hikes without it hurting."

READ NEXT: New car wash could be on the way to this Kildare shopping centre

'JUMP IN AND HELP'

According to Mr Stokes, it is "time for the government to jump in and help".

"They should ditch the upcoming carbon tax hike, which is scheduled for May 1, 2026, slash taxes on petrol, diesel, and home heating oil while this mess is ongoing, and roll out a solid cost of living package that actually makes a difference for workers and families because they failed to do so in they’re budget last year," Mr Stokes added.

He concluded: "People shouldn’t have to carry the weight of these climbing costs while the government continues to drag its feet; they need to act now and deliver some genuine relief."

James Stokes also made headlines last week when he said that young people across Kildare would be the hardest hit by recent rent hikes.

Newbridge-based Sinn Féin activist James Stokes. Photograph credit: James Stokes

READ NEXT: Temporary closure announced for section of Kildare park

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.