Paul Murphy: Govt's 10c Fix Won't Stop Profiteering

Paul Murphy responds to Minister Timmy Dooley's radio explanation of the government's new package, arguing the measures are linked to the protests and are insufficient to protect households. He warns the 10 cent kerosene relief will be wiped out by rises in the international price of oil and renews his call for price controls and universal supports.

Minister's claim and Murphy's response:

Minister Timmy Dooley told a radio audience that the government's package is not connected to the recent protests or blockades, blaming higher international oil prices for undermining earlier measures. Paul Murphy challenges that account, saying nobody believes the package is unconnected to public pressure and that the government's small kerosene payment is tokenistic.

Why price controls matter:

Murphy says he warned in the parliamentary debate that without price controls the government would be exposed to volatile international oil prices. He points to a bill introduced two years ago that would allow the state to set prices and argues this is the only way to stop profiteering and give people certainty about energy costs.

Proposals and universal measures:

Murphy restates demands made on the streets: a universal 500 euro energy credit, measures to end dependence on fossil fuels and immediate introduction of free public transport. He argues those measures must accompany any short-term relief to protect households from ongoing price shocks.

Public pressure and next steps:

Murphy says the recent protests showed ordinary people can force change and that Parliament must match that pressure with meaningful action on the cost of living. He calls for continued public mobilisation in the coming weeks to ensure the government delivers stronger, universal measures.