'Outrageous' - deployment of Irish army criticised as Kilkenny endures fuel protests

Sinn Fein TD for Carlow-Kilkenny, Natasha Newsome has labelled the government's decision to call in the army to remove heavy vehicles blocking fuel depots as 'outrageous'.

The M9 motorway in Kilkenny was blocked at the Danesfort junction northbound for much of the morning (Thursday) with significant delays experienced along the Ring Road, where protest activity impacted traffic flow.

"The decision by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael ministers to call in the army to clear protesters is outrageous. What's needed is dialogue and de-escalation," the local Sinn Féin TD said.

"Protesters asked for just one thing: a commitment from government to meet. Instead of sitting down with representatives of the group, ministers have opted to send in the military.

READ NEXT: "General election immediately" - Kilkenny public slam government amid fuel protests 

"I find that staggering. Even when gardaí were under attack and O'Connell Street was in flames during the Dublin riots, the government did not call in the army. But they call them in now because contractors and hauliers are peacefully protesting?," she continued.

"Yes, protests cause disruption. That's the reality of any strike or demonstration.

"The Fianna Fáil minister must stand down the army and sit down with the protesters. Recall the Dáil and cut taxes on fuel, immediately," Deputy Newsome Drennan concluded. 

READ MORE: Disruptive fuel protest blocks motorway in Kilkenny - happening live