Martin warns €2 fuel prices may become new norm

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has warned that fuel prices of €2 per litre for diesel and potentially petrol could become a "new norm" in Ireland, citing advice from a state-established energy expert group. The warning comes amid ongoing volatility in the Middle East, which has disrupted global oil supplies and pushed pump prices higher despite existing government support. Speaking at a Fianna Fáil think-in in Tullamore, Martin stated that the expert group has advised that prices could remain elevated due to the conflict. "The expert group is making the point to our minister that, as far as they can see out on the horizon, this seems to be a new norm, and that a lot of this is being priced in because of the volatility around the Middle East," he said. The Taoiseach indicated that while the government is considering all options, no specific measures have been decided. "We're looking at everything in the round and nothing ruled out, nothing ruled in," he added, noting that any further support must be balanced against wider budgetary pressures. The government has already taken action to mitigate the impact on motorists.