Fuel allowance timing
Deputy Murphy said winter energy costs were hitting people hard and queried why the budget increase in fuel allowance means thresholds would not apply immediately. The Taoiseach said the intention was immediate implementation and would check whether the delay was only administrative.
People are facing a real crisis this winter in terms of energy and fuel costs. Many people are already seeing rises of over €500. The Government in the budget last week made much of the extra €5 for those on fuel allowance, even though it is less than a third of the cost that many will face. It also announced that the means test would be increased by €20. It did not announce that the increased means test will not apply until 7 January next year. I have a man who is €5 over the current means test. If the Taoiseach accepts that he needs the fuel allowance to pay for his fuel, what does he expect him to do in October, November and December? Will the Taoiseach and the Government intervene to ensure the means test is increased immediately and people like the guy I represent and many others are able to access the fuel allowance now?
Comment on this
The Government decision was to implement the decisions with immediate effect on budget night. The two key decisions were the amount of €5, which was to be implemented immediately, and the increase in the threshold. I will review that and talk to the Minister. It could be an administrative issue. I will pursue it.