They’re lying’: Fuel Protest Spokesman Geoghegan Tears into Harris on Fuel Prices
In a roughly four-minute video circulating on social media, Westmeath agricultural contractor James Geoghegan, a leading figure in this year’s fuel demonstrations, reacts to segments from RTÉ’s Nine O’Clock News and accuses Tánaiste Simon Harris and other government figures of misleading the public on fuel prices and tax relief.
Geoghegan argues that pump prices remain above €2 per litre for diesel and petrol despite earlier emergency measures. He highlights particular pressure on home heating oil and marked green diesel used by farmers and contractors. He disputes government claims that €1.25 billion has been spent on energy supports.
According to Geoghegan, actual targeted fuel relief has been limited while tax take on fuels rose by €289 million in the first six months of 2026. He says the State has recorded around €9 billion in extra revenue and could cut carbon tax and additional VAT, which he puts at a combined 40 cents per litre, to bring prices down.
Geoghegan criticises the rationale for carbon tax, arguing that no practical substitutes exist for tractors, lorries, vans and agricultural machinery. He accuses officials of presenting tax collection as subsidy and calls for greater honesty about the net effect on rural and haulage sectors.
The remarks come as farmers and contractors warn of renewed action ahead of Budget 2027 on 6 October and a scheduled carbon tax increase on 14 October. Geoghegan had previously indicated protests could resume if relief measures expired or taxes rose. Similar concerns were voiced at the National Ploughing Championships last week.
Geoghegan first gained national attention in April when tractor and truck convoy demonstrations prompted a €505 million relief package, including temporary excise cuts. Those measures were later extended in part after further threats of disruption. He has consistently demanded the abolition or freeze of carbon tax and reductions in VAT and excise.
Principal spokespeople James Geoghegan, John Dallon and Christopher Duffy have called a public meeting in Moate on Sunday to discuss the next steps. The gathering is expected to focus on fuel costs, carbon tax and whether further protest action will follow the Budget if practical steps are not taken from the government to significantly help the struggling public.