#613 The Great Irish Toll Road Rip-Off

This Saturday on the podcast, Niall will be joined by Peadar Tóibín, leader of Aontú and one of the most vocal critics of recent policy decisions affecting motorists and rural Ireland.

First up, they’ll discuss the EU–MERCOSUR trade deal protest taking place in Athlone this Saturday — a demonstration gaining attention from farmers, rural groups and politicians alike. Supporters argue the deal threatens Irish agriculture by opening the market to cheaper imports produced under lower environmental and welfare standards, and they’re calling on communities across the country to make their voices heard this weekend.

Farmers Journal

Then, Niall and Peadar will dive into the controversial toll charge increases that have come into effect in Ireland — including higher fees on the M50, the Dublin Port Tunnel at peak times, and several national motorway toll routes.

roscommonherald.ie

These changes — approved by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and linked to inflation adjustments — have sparked protests, criticism from political parties and road users, and rallies such as the recent Aontú actions across Dublin’s motorway bridges.

dublingazette.com

Critics say the toll hikes — coming on top of rising fuel costs, taxes and transport charges — are putting extra strain on commuters, rural businesses and families who rely on these routes daily. Government ministers, however, maintain the adjustments are necessary under existing frameworks and for maintaining key infrastructure.

TheJournal.ie

We’ll be asking you, the listeners:

Do you agree with the principle of paying to use a road that’s supposed to get you from A to B quicker?

Have the latest toll hikes affected your commute or cost of living?

And what do you think about the EU-MERCOSUR deal and its implications for Irish farmers and rural communities?

If you want to come on the show live and share your views, WhatsApp “LET ME ON” to 085 100 22 55 and join the conversation as it happens.