Ireland could see a new wave of fuel protests if diesel prices continue to rise, according to the president of the Irish Road Haulage Association.
Ger Hyland says the haulage industry is coming under serious pressure, with diesel prices now moving beyond €2.10 a litre at some forecourts.
He says many haulage businesses are no longer viable when diesel reaches €1.90 a litre.
Mr Hyland was speaking after meeting Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris in Dublin to discuss possible fuel supports in next month's Budget.
The IRHA did not take part in the nationwide fuel protests in April, as it was negotiating directly with the Government.
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However, when asked if hauliers could become involved in further protests, Mr Hyland said: "Desperate times make for desperate people and prices of €2.10 are still too high for many people. They have nothing to lose."
He later warned that some businesses are now facing a major decision about whether they can continue operating.
"There is people in our industry today that will have to make a decision very shortly whether they're going to park up their vehicles or whether they're going to go into liquidation. It's that serious."
He also said: "Unless our industry is supported, our industry will die."
Mr Hyland said the IRHA has not been promised any specific measures by the Government, but he was given the impression that current reductions in fuel excise could be extended beyond November.
The Government had originally planned to begin restoring full excise duties in November, but Simon Harris has indicated that could now be reconsidered if fuel prices remain high.
"That may not be the prudent thing to do now if the current elevated prices continue. So we need to look at that," he said.
The current fuel supports were introduced after major protests in April, when rising fuel prices led to demonstrations and road blockages across the country.
The Government later deferred planned increases in fuel excise duty for September and October. The reduced rates are currently due to remain in place until the end of October, with excise increases due to begin again from November.
AA Ireland's latest figures put the average price of diesel at €1.94 a litre in September, although prices at some individual forecourts are now considerably higher.
Mr Hyland says the IRHA will continue negotiating with the Government while there is a possible route to support the industry.
However, he warned that the situation is becoming increasingly difficult for hauliers, with some businesses now facing the possibility of having to park up their vehicles or close down altogether.
