Ep 266 - Navigating the Fuel Crisis: What HR Needs to Know

Rising geopolitical tensions and ongoing conflict between Iran and the US are continuing to create volatility in global energy markets — and while recent government measures have brought some reduction in fuel prices, uncertainty remains in Ireland.

In recent weeks, there have been reports of fuel shortages at pumps, alongside rising costs that are placing real pressure on both employees and employers. What may seem like a global issue is now creating immediate, day-to-day challenges for businesses — from employees struggling to get to work, to increased operational costs and reduced customer footfall in certain sectors.

HR teams are increasingly at the forefront of responding to these challenges. Employers must carefully balance business continuity with employee support, while also being mindful of the legal and employee relations implications of any decisions made.

In this episode of The HR Room, we explore how organisations can respond to the current fuel crisis — from understanding the risks to implementing practical solutions. We’ll discuss workforce impacts, cost-saving measures, flexible working strategies, and longer-term approaches to building resilience in how employees commute.

Guests

• Joe Thompson — Head of HR Services, Insight HR
• Addi Colgan — Irish Representative, Kinto Join

Topics include:

• How the fuel crisis is affecting employers and employees across Ireland
• Operational challenges in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and shift-based work
• The role of flexible working in easing commuting pressures
• Balancing employee support with business sustainability and cost management
• Alternative commuting solutions such as carpooling and shared transport
• The role of communication and transparency in building trust
• Lessons from previous disruptions (e.g. COVID-19 and remote working)
• Practical ways to support employees without large-scale cost increases
• Planning for long-term uncertainty and building organisational resilience

 

Key Takeaways for HR Leaders

• Employers should respond to the fuel crisis with practical, proportionate solutions.
• Flexibility (where possible) can significantly ease employee pressure and improve retention.
• Not all roles can be remote, but small adjustments (e.g. start times, rostering) can help.
• HR must balance business needs with employee wellbeing.
• Data-driven decisions are essential when assessing flexibility and policy changes.
• Clear, transparent communication builds trust and reduces employee relations risk.
• Alternative commuting solutions (e.g. carpooling) can provide meaningful support.
• Listening to employee feedback is key to identifying effective solutions.
• Employers don’t need to solve everything, but they must show awareness and action.
• Early, thoughtful planning helps build resilience against ongoing uncertainty.

 

Get in Touch

If you’re not already following us on LinkedIn, please do.
If you have suggestions for future episodes, or if you’d like to join us as a guest, reach out to Dave Corkery at dcorkery@insighthr.ie or connect with him on LinkedIn.
For more information on Kinto JOIN, visit kintojoin.io

 

About The HR Room Podcast

The HR Room Podcast is brought to you by Insight HR — where we speak with HR leaders, experts and practitioners across Ireland about the issues shaping the world of work today.

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please share it with colleagues or friends and leave us a review.
We love to hear your feedback, we take requests, and we’re always here to support you with your HR challenges.

Immediate HR support 👉 056 770 1060 or info@insighthr.ie