Time for real leadership on energy costs and climate action

• Fossil fuel dependence hitting families, Government response falls short

Labour Leader Ivana Bacik TD has called on Government to show real leadership in addressing spiralling energy costs and accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels, following exchanges with the Taoiseach in the Dáil today.

Speaking during Leaders’ Questions, Deputy Bacik warned that households across the country are facing unsustainable increases in fuel and heating costs driven by the ongoing war launched illegally by the US and Israel against Iran. Deputy Bacik said the Government’s response is inadequate. Labour is calling for stronger immediate supports for families alongside urgent investment in renewable energy, public transport and active travel; and a guaranteed right to remote working to reduce Ireland’s exposure to future shocks.

Deputy Bacik said:

“Families across Ireland are now facing a deepening cost of living crisis as energy prices surge to levels that are simply unaffordable. Petrol and diesel costs have risen sharply in recent days, while households reliant on home heating oil are seeing bills increase dramatically, with some facing costs of up to €1,800 to fill a tank. This is placing enormous pressure on households already struggling to make ends meet.

“This Government has introduced some short-term measures, including excise reductions and additional fuel allowance supports, but these are limited and do not provide the certainty or reassurance that families need as this crisis continues. The Taoiseach’s response in the Dáil today was deeply disappointing, as he failed to acknowledge the scale of the challenge facing households or to set out any credible plan to protect people if energy prices remain high in the weeks and months ahead.

“Ireland remains dangerously exposed to global energy shocks because of this Government’s failure to move decisively away from fossil fuels. By contrast, other European countries have demonstrated what is possible. Spain, for example, now generates a significant proportion of its electricity from renewable sources, resulting in far lower electricity costs and greater energy security. That did not happen by accident; it was the result of sustained Left political leadership and investment.

“Labour is calling on this Government to act now: to provide stronger, targeted supports for households facing immediate pressure; to urgently accelerate the rollout of renewable energy; to invest in affordable and accessible public transport and cycling infrastructure; and to enable more people to work remotely so that they are not forced into costly daily commutes. Families deserve a Government that is prepared to plan ahead, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and protect people from future crises. The Government must act now.”