DUBLIN, Ireland: Motorists launched a novel protest across the country against fuel prices, slowing traffic to a crawl on highways and other city roads by driving in convoys.

A Garda Síochána said they were aware of groups of vehicles traveling together (convoys) on several major roads across the country, including in counties such as Kildare, Limerick, Offaly, Meath, and Galway.

Social media posts said that trucks, farm vehicles, and other vehicles would gather in different places. Some convoys would stay in local areas, while others would travel toward Dublin city center. Planned routes included major roads like the M1, N2, N3, N4, M7, and N11.

This is happening as fuel prices are expected to rise to about 2.30 euros per liter because of the conflict in Iran.

A group called "The People of Ireland Against Fuel Prices" said that thousands of vehicles—trucks, buses, and cars—joined in a single convoy and headed to O'Connell Street in Dublin.

Some vehicles started leaving as early as 6:00 am to join the main convoy. Key meeting points included Liffey Valley, the Red Cow, and the M50/Port Tunnel area.

Ger Hyland from the Irish Road Haulage Association said he didn't know who organized the protest and did not clearly say if he supported it. He said they understood why people are protesting, as fuel costs are very high, and they are still discussing the issue with the government.

He added that the association is not officially involved, but individual members can decide for themselves. Some are joining because they can't afford fuel for their trucks.

Kevin McPartland from Fuels for Ireland said the main issue is fuel taxes. He explained that although the government reduced fuel prices by 20 cents per liter, it recoups most of that through VAT. He said he understands the protesters and believes there should be a full review of fuel taxes and costs. He also said that specific help is needed for sectors such as transport and farming.

People have been advised to allow extra travel time due to possible traffic problems.

Police warned that there will be heavy traffic and slow-moving vehicles on main roads leading into Dublin and other big cities from around 8:00 am.

They also said they did not organize or approve the protest, but no permit is needed to hold one.