Thousands of farmers, hauliers, and ordinary citizens continued anti-government protests across Ireland on Sunday, marking the sixth day of widespread blockades sparked by soaring fuel prices. Demonstrators used tractors and trucks to obstruct motorways, fuel depots, and ports, leading to fuel shortages at around 600 of the nation's 1,500 petrol stations.

The unrest began on April 7 amid a global energy crisis triggered by conflict involving Iran, which closed the Strait of Hormuz and drove diesel prices up more than 20% in Ireland. High taxes exacerbate the burden, comprising 59% of petrol and 52% of diesel costs. Protesters demand price caps at €1.75-€1.85 per litre for diesel, suspension of carbon taxes, and further excise duty cuts to protect rural economies and families.

Blockades targeted key sites including Dublin's O'Connell Street and M50 motorway, Cork's Whitegate oil refinery, Ireland's sole facility, and Limerick's Foynes port. Traffic chaos forced passengers to walk along the M50 toward Dublin Airport, while public transport like Luas and Dublin Bus faced severe disruptions. Emergency services reported delays, and supply chains suffered nationwide.

Polling shows strong public backing, with 56% supporting the actions in one survey and 73% in another. On Sunday, Gardaí launched operations to clear sites. An early morning raid with hundreds of officers removed protesters from O'Connell Street, while scores cleared Whitegate, allowing tankers access; pepper spray was used at the refinery. Protesters voluntarily lifted the Foynes blockade.

Despite these moves, remaining obstructions persisted on the M1, M4, M6, M7, M8, and N18. The Defence Forces assisted with removals earlier in the week at ports.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin labeled the Whitegate action "national sabotage" and convened an emergency cabinet meeting. The government announced a €505 million package, including further fuel duty reductions, 10 cents per litre on petrol and diesel, 2.4 cents on green diesel, and a delayed carbon tax hike. Officials insist they negotiate only with groups like the Irish Farmers' Association and Irish Road Haulage Association, not ad-hoc protesters.

Protest leaders dismissed the measures as "insulting" and "not enough," vowing to continue until demands are met. School buses may face Monday disruptions post-Easter break if blockades hold. The standoff highlights deepening frustration over living costs in a nation already strained by prior relief efforts.