Stormont ministers say fuel supply chains are unaffected by Iran war - but Executive regularly updated
Fuel supply chains in Northern Ireland are currently unaffected by the war in Iran – but Stormont ministers are receiving regular updates on the current situation, the Executive Office has said.
The update is in response to a statement from the Ulster Unionist Party which called on the first and deputy first ministers’ department to prepare for civil contingencies measures in the event that there are shortages of fuel as a result of the conflict.
A spokesperson for Michelle O’Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly’s office says that the situation is being “closely monitored” by their officials.
“There are currently no issues affecting fuel supply chains. The Executive receives regular updates on the position, and fuel supply continues to be included as a standing item on the Executive agenda.
“The situation is being closely monitored by the Department’s Civil Contingencies Division, with ongoing engagement across Executive departments and with partners in neighbouring jurisdictions to ensure readiness to respond swiftly to any potential local impacts”, the Executive Office spokesperson said.
On Wednesday, Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows said he had written to the First Minister and deputy First Minister earlier in the week, calling for the commencement of emergency planning – warning that Northern Ireland can’t afford a “delayed reaction” from Stormont.
The North Antrim MLA said plans must be in place now for a scenario in which fuel has to be rationed.
“There has been considerable concern in recent days regarding the potential of fuel shortages in Northern Ireland.
“On Monday, I wrote directly to the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, urging them to initiate civil contingency planning to address any disruption that could affect individuals and communities across the province.
“Where there is a foreseeable risk with serious consequences, leadership requires early and decisive action, not delayed reaction. That is the purpose of civil contingencies.
“Being prepared is not alarmist; it is responsible governance”, Mr Burrows said.