Long queues at Ballina petrol stations amid panic buying
Panic buying in Tuffy's Fuel Station on the Station Road Ballina. Picture: John O'Grady.
Cars have been queuing up at petrol stations today across Ireland amid concerns that fuel stocks could run low over the coming days as a result of blockades at a number of fuel depots around the country.
In Mayo, there have been reports of petrol stations pumps running dry today as a result with many outlets having to coordinate and direct traffic to ensure road safety. The scene is no different in Ballina where scores of vehicles are queued up at the town’s various filling stations.
However, James Clarke, owner of Clarke’s XL, Ballina has said that social media has amplified the issue and that this panic buying will only lead to shortages.
“It is all manufactured nonsense. The reality is that I got a full tanker of fuel this morning to fill my tanks. Because of these blockades, there are some depots that can’t deliver and this has led to some isolated pockets where some have run out,” he said.
“They are running out because of these protests which turned into blockades and there will be knock-on effects. The likes of ourselves won’t be able to replenish.”
“Everyone of my pumps is currently full with a line of cars behind it. One customer even filled four 25 litre drums and it is because the word is out that the country is short of fuel but it is manufactured panic. Everyone is filling their tanks and that will put too much pressure on the tanker system for deliveries.”
John Moloney, owner of Moloney’s Centra and Maxol Fuel Station on the Sligo Road, which offers 24-hour diesel and petrol 7am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and 8am to 9pm on Sunday, told the Western People that there is a lot of panic buying occurring at the moment.
“A lot of petrol stations are running out but we have been watching our stocks closely. We got one last Saturday and another about an hour ago and hoping for another this Saturday or Sunday,” he said.
“The Government are going to have to get a handle on the situation. People are very angry and concerned. I would say to people to keep an eye on the news and make sure you have adequate fuel. We’re confident, Maxol have the stocks available and we are all in this together.”
