The price of petrol has risen by 2.6 cents to an average of 153.3 cents per litre according to the AA monthly index of fuel prices, meaning that the average motorist will now spend €229.95 in petrol every month.
Diesel prices actually fell by 0.3 cent, which is good news for the majority of new car buyers, 70% of whom choose an oil-burner attracted by better fuel consumption and lower taxation.
The ownership figures for older cars are reversed though, with more than 60% using petrol. This means that the less well-off are disproportionately affected by any rise in fuel prices.
"The remorseless rise in petrol prices has continued," says Director of Policy, Conor Faughnan, "pushing up our cost of living in a way that affects almost every family in the country."
The AA also warns drivers to be careful when buying diesel: "Go to reputable garages. If you are buying fuel very cheaply from a farm gate or some other irregular outlet, it is entirely possible that you could be buying laundered fuel. Quite apart from the legal consequences you may damage your engine."
The AA is asking its members and all motorists to share their thoughts about prices via http://blog.aaireland.ie/.