Wicklow Wexford TD Invokes The Spirit Of Rebellion In Dressing Down The Government

Wicklow–Wexford TD condemns Government over fuel prices amid protest anger

Wicklow–Wexford Sinn Féin TD Fionntán Ó Suilleabhain has launched a strong attack on the Government in the Dáil, accusing it of failing to respond to widespread anger over fuel prices following protests across Wicklow and other regions last week.

Speaking in the chamber, he said he was “proud” to stand with what he described as “decent, hard-working people” who took to the roads in peaceful protest out of “desperation,” including farmers, contractors, taxi and bus drivers, commuters and pensioners struggling with heating costs.

He criticised the coalition of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and independent TDs for what he called a refusal to act, saying protesters were demanding meaningful supports but received none.

He argued the Government should have reduced excise on petrol and diesel and scrapped charges on home heating oil to ease the cost-of-living burden.

Robbed 

The Sinn Féin TD also accused the State of prioritising other spending decisions over struggling households and workers, and claimed people feel “robbed of a future” due to rising living costs and fuel dependency.

He further claimed the Government’s response showed “arrogance,” and warned that public anger on the streets should not be ignored, suggesting political consequences ahead.

Linking the issue to international instability, he referenced the impact of global conflict on energy prices, while also blaming domestic policy for worsening the pressure on consumers.

Concluding his remarks, he invoked historical references ahead of the Easter Rising commemorations, warning that continued public frustration could deepen unless action is taken.

The message from Deputy Ó Suilleabhain was clear .... 

''We're approaching the anniversary of the Easter Rising on Friday week and its worth remembering Pearse' (Patrick Pearse) famous words - Beware of the thing that is coming, Beware of the Risen People who shall take what you would not give!''