The Hardware Association of Ireland has welcomed confirmation that fuel support measures are to be extended to include construction workers, contractors and construction vehicles, in a development with significant cost implications for the sector.

Breaking News reported that the scheme is expected to apply to commercial vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, capturing a significant portion of the construction fleet including heavy goods vehicles, plant transport and supply chain logistics operators.

Applications are anticipated to be processed through an online system administered by the Department of Transport.

Martin Markey, chief executive of the Hardware Association of Ireland, said: "Today's news, ahead of the formal announcement later today, is both timely and necessary. Construction is a fuel intensive sector and sustained increases in diesel costs feed directly into the price of building homes and delivering infrastructure."

Markey added: "It is critically important that costs are stabilised across the system, allowing new home construction, renovations and upgrades to continue. Extending supports to vehicles over 3.5 tonnes involved in the construction industry is a very practical step that recognises the operational reality of the sector."

He further said: "The detail will matter. An efficient online application process is essential, but it must be simple and fast. Any delay in processing risks impacting transport, deliveries and the wider construction supply chain."

Markey concluded that the measure would go some way towards easing pressure on contractors, suppliers and ultimately consumers, but stressed that speed of access would be key to its effectiveness.

Access the full report on what Ireland's fuel support extension means for the construction sector.