Minister Norma Foley insists the government is in charge, and not the protestors blockading critical infrastructure.
The Kerry Fianna Fáil TD says the government will be meeting this afternoon with representatives of the various organisations involved in the protest.
Minister Foley says people blocking access to fuel have been given the chance to reflect on their position before the army moves their vehicles.
She insists the protestors are not the ones in charge of the situation.