SINN FÉIN HAS warned that “half measures” won’t work and that a real package of measures is needed to help people with the burden of rising fuel prices. 

The criticism comes amid reports that Government is focusing on cutting excise duty. 

It comes amid the escalating US-Israel war in Iran, with the head of the International Energy Agency today warning that the conflict is “the greatest global energy security threat in history”.

Sinn Fein’s spokesperson on Finance Pearse Doherty today said that he is concerned by “reports that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael do not intend to reduce diesel by the maximum amount of 25c a litre”. 

Doherty also said that it is reported that the government is “refusing to reduce tax on home heating oil”. 

He said this would amount to “abandoning” hundreds of thousands of households to “totally unaffordable bills”. 

Doherty added that “half measures” from the Government “won’t cut it” as the cost-of-living crisis is pushing households to breaking point. 

A senior source said any specifics reported today are speculative until leaders meet and cabinet decides. They said the govt will look at all the areas such as the areas reported on today regarding excise cuts and it’s understood any measures will only be temporary.

Another senior source added: ‘There is a whole range of areas being looked at’ while another said ‘nothing decided yet’”.

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris has indicated that the government will move to cut excise duty next week as part of a series of measures aimed at reducing fuel prices. 

Brent crude oil, the international standard, rose to $112.66 (€97) today, up 3.69% from the previous day and more than 47% since the start of the war. 

The government measures, which could also include an enhanced diesel rebate scheme for hauliers, are expected to be announced after Cabinet next Tuesday. 

Taoiseach Micheál Martin had strongly hinted earlier this week that excise duty could be cut to alleviate fuel costs.

On RTE radio today Fine Gael Minister of State John Cummins has said that the Government’s energy relief measures, to be unveiled next tuesday, will be aimed at “putting money in people’s pockets”, as he faced calls from opposition TDs for measures aimed at helping the most vulnerable.

He said that he could not outline exactly what measures will be included – though the Tánaiste has already hinted that we will see a cut to excise duty in order to bring down fuel prices.

A statement has been requested from the Government press office. 

With reporting from Christina Finn.