The Irish Transport Minister will not intervene to lessen the impact of rising diesel prices for hauliers.

Noel Dempsey ruled out any plans to cut the excise duty on fuel amid price hikes hitting €1.46 at some pumps.

Many haulage firms have pleaded with the minister, claiming they are in dire financial situations.

As costs continue to rocket across Ireland and the UK, the Irish government has defended its involved in the increasing prices.

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The government has claimed that Ireland has some of the lowest duties in Europe, with excise duties on diesel being at the lower end of the European scale.

Minister Dempsey noted, "the transport industry has been particularly hard hit" which is "obviously a huge concern for everybody."

Mr Dempsey said any move on tax would have to be initiated by the Irish Department of Finance, which would form part of the Budget.

The Minister said that any reduction in taxes might just lead to extra profit for fuel distributors.

"It is argues that if one start reducing tax rates as oil prices rise, including diesel, it is further encouragement for people to keep putting prices up because the taxpayer and government will carry the can," added Mr Dempsey.

(PR/JM)