Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 July 2023
139. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Social Protection if she aware that An Taoiseach has publicly commented that he anticipates energy prices are anticipated to remain high this winter (details supplied); how she is preparing for sustained inflated energy prices; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32925/23]
View answerThe Government is acutely aware of the effect of energy costs on low-income households and is committed to protecting vulnerable households from the impact of energy costs through a combination of supports, energy efficiency awareness initiatives and investment in programmes to improve the energy efficiency of the housing stock. As the Deputy is aware, the Government has provided a range of supports to assist people with rising energy costs to date, through a series of targeted lump sum payments and increases in core payment rates for those in receipt of social welfare payments, and through the energy credit scheme which was available to all households.My Department also provides direct support towards energy costs to qualifying low-income household through schemes such as the Fuel Allowance Scheme, Household Benefits Package as wells as through Additional Needs Payments as part of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme for people who have an urgent need, which they cannot meet from their own resources. These payments are available through our Community Welfare Officers.Funds raised through the carbon tax will again be used to ensure that those in the lowest income deciles are protected from increased energy costs.All options will be kept under review, together with trends in prices, to inform preparations for the budget later this year. We will, however, have to take account, as always, of the overall budgetary context and the availability of financial resources.I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
