This contribution was originally published in The Irish Times on April 13th 2026.

It’s hard to avoid coverage on the fuel protests, not just by media, but everywhere in daily life including neighbourhood WhatsApp groups, colleagues and random people on your commute.

What seems different now compared to previous times is the divisiveness and how any nuance on the protests, the way in which they are carried out or the impact they’ve had on people’s lives is treated in very black and white terms and not tolerated. Either side will condemn the other as wilfully ignorant for daring to express a diverging opinion.

One of the things I loved about Ireland moving here was the “live and let live” attitude of people. I hope that is not disappearing with the clear rise of polarisation in social discourse.

While it is encouraging to see people come together in support during difficult times and stand up for policy change, I hope it does not come at the cost of shutting down respectful disagreement.