Imminent threats to critical supply chains and business operations unless fuel protests are removed – Ibec
Ibec, the group representing Irish business, has urged an immediate de-escalation of the nationwide fuel protest. Now in its third day, the protest is presenting significant cost and operational disruption which is already impacting on supply chains, while also presenting health and safety risks to workers. Ibec members across critical business supply chains such as food, medicines and construction are all reporting growing risks to production processes within the coming 24 to 48 hours unless the protests are removed from essential infrastructure such as ports, industrial zones and transport hubs. Some sites have already ceased production.
Beyond the obvious disruption that has forced organisations to alter work patterns to limit overall operational impact, the protests have caused significant access issues for several large industrial areas. Restricting access to these facilities poses a major risk to health and safety, particularly in emergency situations where ease of entry is critical. Many employees have been unable to access their work places and some employers are reporting up to 50% forced absenteeism rates.
Ibec Director of Lobbying and Influence, Fergal O’Brien said:
“The protests are now presenting material damage and costs to businesses across multiple sectors of the economy. Supply chains are being hit hard due to the port and other blockades and high value production process in the food, pharma and construction sector are all at imminent risk. This will have immediate knock-on costs and disruption for the agriculture and construction, sectors, in particular, and coupled with wider costs across the economy to the retail and hospitality sectors, it will lead to significant economic costs which will ultimately undermine the State’s revenue base and Government’s ability to support those most impacted by the global energy crisis. The protests are counterproductive and damaging to businesses and the economy, including our investment reputation.
We fully understand the cost pressures facing individuals and businesses as a result of the ongoing volatility in the Middle East. Ibec, as the largest representative body for businesses, continues to advocate constructively with Government to discuss further ways to alleviate these pressures until costs have stabilised.”
