Running on Empty: Donegal driving instructors feel pressure of rising fuel costs

Driving instructors in Donegal are also feeling the strain of rising fuel costs linked to the ongoing Iran War, with many warning that the increases are impacting their livelihoods and ability to support their families.

Instructors, who spend the majority of their working day on the road, say they are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in fuel prices. They have also expressed solidarity with farmers and road hauliers, who are similarly affected by the continued increases.

Darragh Dunne, co-founder and director of the Professional Driving Instructors Association, said the sector has repeatedly called for greater support, including access to grants currently available to the taxi industry for electric vehicles.

He said these supports were originally intended to encourage a transition to greener transport, but have not been extended to driving instructors.

According to Mr Dunne, while instructors are willing to move away from petrol and diesel vehicles, existing incentives are not sufficient.

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The high mileage associated with the profession leads to rapid depreciation of vehicles, making investment in electric cars financially challenging.

He added that without meaningful support measures, many instructors may struggle to remain viable, as fuel costs continue to rise amid global uncertainty, placing additional pressure on an already demanding profession.