The fuel protests which have caused major traffic disruption along the N2 in the Republic of Ireland are now spreading across Northern Ireland… with the latest area to see an offshoot, in Newry.
The protests have been building along the M1 in response to rising fuel costs and “crushing taxes”.
Today (April 14) will see drivers across several areas join the demonstrative action, including major arterial routes at the Westlink and Sandyknowes in Belfast, Sprucefield, Lisburn and Nutts Corner, Antrim.
Locally, action is due to be taken at the Cloughoge and Sheepsbridge junctions of Newry at 2pm.
Posters calling for support have encouraged HGV drivers, farmers, taxi and bus companies and – more generally – “everyone” to attend in support.
Among attendees will be the ‘Locals First Initiative’ a group that was initially founded to campaign against Newry’s City of Sanctuary Status in 2025.
In a statement ahead of the fuel protest, the group said: “At a time when rising fuel prices and crushing taxes are pushing everyone to the brink, we will not stand by and watch.
“Local First Initiative will be there — standing shoulder to shoulder with those who feed and provide for this nation… its backbone.”
In reference to those most effected by the rising cost of fuel, Locals First Initiative added: “If they go under, we all feel it..in our food, our jobs and our cost of living.
“This isn’t just about fuel, it’s about survival, fairness and protecting local livelihoods.
“We support the protest. We support our farmers. We support putting local first.”
The Newry area has long been hailed as a “vital link” for commercial transportation between Belfast and Dublin.
According to reports by Belfast Live on nationwide protest, the police are maintaining an ongoing assessment in relation to social media posts calling for planned protests across Northern Ireland.
They said: “A policing response has been prepared, if needed, to ensure public safety and to help minimise any potential disruption to the wider community.”
Warnings of traffic disruption have been issued. It would be advisable to seek alternative routes for your journey to avoid delays.
Other areas affected by protest:
- Westlink, Belfast
- Sprucefield, Lisburn
- Nutts Corner, Antrim
- Sandyknowes Roundabout, Mallusk
- Larne Harbour
- Ballygawley Roundabout
- New Toome Bridge, Toomebridge
- A5 Omagh (Town Centre)
