Fuel protests paralyze Ireland

The Irish government is facing a mounting crisis as the 'fuel blockade' enters its sixth day, threatening the supply of essential goods and services.

Gardaí have been deployed to clear several protest sites, but demonstrators remain defiant, vowing to continue their actions until significant tax cuts are implemented.

The protests have already impacted cancer patients' hospital appointments and raised fears of food shortages in rural areas.

Ministers are expected to sign off on a new support package for hauliers and farmers, though it remains unclear if this will be enough to end the gridlock.