260. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Social Protection if, given the unseasonably cold and wet weather throughout April, May and to date in June, and the consequent necessity for heating to be on and open fires to be lit in the period, she will consider the reinstatement of the fuel allowance for eligible people back dating it to the date of the final payment of the fuel allowance in April, up to and including, the week commencing 17 June, in order to assist the less-well-off with the additional costs incurred upon them through necessity caused by the unseasonably low temperatures and inclement weather; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26796/24]

The Fuel Allowance is a payment of €33 per week for 28 weeks (a total of €924 each year) from late September to April, at an estimated cost of €382 million in 2024.  The purpose of this payment is to assist these households with their energy costs.  Only one allowance is paid per household.

The provision of any additional supports such as reinstating the Fuel Allowance payment would have cost implications and could only be considered while taking account of the overall budgetary context and the availability of financial resources.

My Department does provide Additional Needs Payments as part of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme for people who have essential expenses, which they cannot meet from their own resources. Additional Needs Payments, where appropriate, can be paid to people who face difficulties in meeting fuel bills. Additional Needs Payments are not restricted to the fuel season and can be paid throughout the year.

The decision process for Additional Needs Payments involves consideration of the need presented and the ability of the person and their household to meet that need.  This entails an assessment, as opposed to a specific means test, of an applicant’s weekly household income, their savings and investments, their outgoings and the type of assistance needed. This ensures that support is provided to people with the greatest financial need.

Any person who considers that they may have an entitlement to an Additional Needs Payment is encouraged to contact their local community welfare service.  There is a National Community Welfare Contact Centre in place - 0818-607080 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office.  In addition, applications can be made online via www.mywelfare.ie .

I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.