Belfast, 10 April 2026 - Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA) has warned that the fuel crisis is placing intense pressure on workers, particularly lower‑ and middle‑income earners and those with limited access to public transport.
Fuel prices in Northern Ireland have risen faster than anywhere else in the UK, with some of the steepest increases seen anywhere in Europe. Since the end of February, petrol prices have increased by 19%, while diesel prices have risen by 35%.
The cost of filling a standard 50‑litre tank now averages £75 for petrol and £91 for diesel, compared with £63 and £67 respectively just weeks ago. NIPSA says these increases are having an immediate and severe impact on workers’ ability to get to and from work.
With disruption being discussed in Belfast in response to rising fuel costs, NIPSA has stressed the need for urgent action to ease pressure on workers and prevent further strain on workplaces and public services.
Patrick Mulholland, NIPSA Deputy General Secretary, said:
“The fuel crisis is adding significant pressure to the cost‑of‑living emergency, particularly for workers who have no practical alternative but to travel by car.
These unprecedented price rises are pushing household budgets to breaking point and creating real anxiety about simply getting to work.”
The union is calling on employers to take immediate, practical steps to support staff, including:
- Expanding remote and hybrid working where possible
- Increasing mileage and fuel allowances to reflect real costs
- Offering greater flexibility in working hours
- Introducing temporary fuel or travel support measures
NIPSA has urged employers and government to act now to reduce pressure on workers, maintain service delivery, and ensure people are not penalised for circumstances beyond their control.
ENDS
For further information or interview requests, please contact:
Patrick Mulholland, Deputy General Secretary
Tel: 077 1079 1487
Or
Emma McConville, Communications and Research Officer
Email:
Tel: 079 7037 8521