Coal access for older people
Fitzpatrick says older people buying coal in small quantities are especially disadvantaged. Haughey says merchants have promised them preference and notes that vouchers can be used for other fuels; members point to coal’s high cost and cash-payment terms.
(Cavan-Monaghan): Would the Minister agree that old people who depend on buying coal in small quantities are particularly badly hit?
Comment on this
There may be a bit of a problem there but, on the other hand, we have received assurances from the merchants that old people will get preference. Secondly, the voucher introduces a great element of flexibility: they can now get turf or wood or gas or anything else.