Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has called on the British Government to reduce fuel duty immediately. She raised the matter in discussions with the Cabinet Office and sent a formal letter to Peter Kyle MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade.

Dr Archibald stated that petrol and diesel prices in Northern Ireland have increased by 20% to 40% in a few days. She attributed the rises to the conflict in the Middle East. The minister described the increases as creating sudden financial pressure on households and businesses.

She requested cancellation of planned fuel duty increases set for September if prices stay high. Dr Archibald pointed to a recent cut in Mineral Oil Tax for petrol, diesel, and Marked Gas Oil by the Irish Government.

A Translink spokesperson noted some disruption to coach services from Northern Ireland to Dublin and Dublin Airport due to protests in the Republic of Ireland.