315. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport for an update on a fuel package; if he is considering the inclusion of the taxi and hackney sector on the fuel package given the essential service they provide and the difficulties being encountered with increased fuel costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34001/26]

The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the independent transport regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA), under the provisions of the Consolidated Taxi Regulation Acts 2013 and 2016. I have no role in the day-to-day operations of the SPSV sector.

In response to the increase in fuel prices, the Government has introduced temporary and targeted measures to reduce fuel prices for households and businesses nationwide, with additional supports for key sectors of the Irish economy. A new package of measures on fuel costs was announced on 12 April, in addition to the previously allocated €250 million in targeted supports that included a reduction in the rate of Mineral Oil Tax applying to petrol and auto diesel, and a reduction in Marked Gas Oil. These measures include:

• A reduction in excise on diesel by 10 cent (VAT inclusive), bringing the total reduction on diesel to 32 cent (VAT inclusive), following ongoing engagement with the European Commission.

• A reduction in excise on petrol by 10 cent (VAT inclusive), brining the total reduction on petrol to 27 cent (VAT inclusive).

• The planned increase in carbon tax, that was scheduled for 1 May 2026, will be deferred until October 2026.

The Government is approaching the rise in energy prices from a position of relative economic strength, having conserved the necessary fiscal space to respond as needed to external shocks. The measures taken will allow Government to support those most exposed, whilst maintaining the capacity for further interventions if needed, in the context of a volatile and evolving international situation.