Advance Construction urges UK to match Ireland’s new fuel support package

The Bellshill-based civil engineering and groundworks contractor has warned that rising fuel costs are placing “intolerable pressure” on construction, logistics and agriculture across the UK.

The Irish Government confirmed a major intervention on 12 April, unveiling a broad package of excise cuts and sector‑specific supports aimed at easing the impact of surging fuel prices. The measures include a further 10 cent reduction in excise duty on petrol and diesel, a 2.4 cent cut on marked gas oil (green diesel), and the deferral of a planned carbon‑tax increase until the autumn Budget.

In addition, Ireland has committed more than €140 million per month in targeted support for haulage, farming, fisheries and other fuel‑intensive sectors. This includes a new Road Transporters Support Scheme, a €100m Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme for farmers and contractors, and up to €5m per month for fisheries, forestry and specialist horticulture.

Seamus Shields, owner of Advance Construction Group, said the contrast between the two governments’ approaches was becoming increasingly stark.

“What we’re seeing in Ireland is a government that understands the importance of backing industry during periods of cost pressure,” he warned.

“Targeted fuel relief and sector support provide immediate stability to construction, logistics and agriculture, the very industries that underpin our economic growth.

“Ireland is backing its economy. The UK is burdening it. When fuel costs are rising and margins are tightening, supporting industry is essential. Without decisive action, the UK risks slowing growth at the very point it should be accelerating it.”

The Irish Government said the measures were designed to protect supply chains, stabilise food production and provide immediate relief to households and businesses facing unprecedented fuel inflation.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “The government recognises and understands the pressures that have arisen due to rising fuel costs as a result of war in Ukraine and the Middle East on all families and businesses.

“I am very conscious of the fact that we have to ensure that we support people, protect key services and make critical investments.

“The package we have agreed today is a significant response to real pressures being felt here and globally.”

Advance Construction warned that UK firms are facing the same cost pressures as their Irish counterparts but without equivalent government intervention.

The company, which operates more than 200 live sites across the UK, said fuel inflation is now affecting every stage of construction delivery — from plant operation and materials transport to subcontractor viability and project pricing.

Shields said the UK Government must “act with the same urgency and scale” as Ireland to prevent further strain on already‑pressured sectors.