The Defence Forces Units have arrived at the Whitegate oil refinery in east Cork.
This comes amid continued protests along Ireland's main fuel depots, as well as the only oil refinery in Cork, which has caused major restrictions of the supply lines. It was reported earlier this week that up to 500 filling stations would run dry amid these ongoing blockades.
Along O'Connell Street, trucks, buses, and tracks had lined along both sides, with Gardaí placing 'No Parking' yellow cones in an attempt to contain the situation. The blockades have led to widespread road closures across the country. More on this here.
As for the Whitegate facility, the Garda Public Order Unit have deployed Pepper Spray as they push back protestors from entering the facility.
A Garda Operation is ongoing at Whitegate Refinery to ensure critical supplies of fuel to maintain critical emergency public services, including Ambulance and Fire Services.
Garda Public Order Units have been deployed.
Blockaders must comply with Garda directions. pic.twitter.com/SukFEMiDWX
— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) April 11, 2026
Speaking this, Minister of State for European Affaires, Thomas Byrne has said that the Gardaí have a graduated approach to law enforcement, but has stated that what is currently unfolding has gone beyond a simple protest.
He said that nobody has the right to blockade oil in any country, adding that over a third of the petrol stations in Ireland have now run dry of fuel, causing huge difficulties which need to end.
Mr Byrne did insist he has full confidence in the Gardaí and they are obliged to maintain peace.
He also explained how carers and healthcare workers are still able to get to work, but in the midwest, children with disabilities are being blocked from getting homecare due to these blockades.
"We need to get the refinery open or the country will close", he said.
A meeting between Government ministers and representatives of farmers and hauliers is under way at the time of writing.
