Penrose backs calls for doubling of fuel allowance during cold weather

Labour spokesperson on Rural and Community Affairs, Willie Penrose TD, has said older people in rural communities need assurances that they can heat their homes for the duration of the cold snap without facing a huge bill, and called for the fuel allowance to be doubled this week.

Deputy Penrose said:

“Those in rural and isolated areas are most likely to be cut off as a result of the extreme weather and will need to ensure they properly heat their home for the duration.

“Older people in particular are feeling genuinely nervous about the plummeting temperatures over the next few days and should be given assurances that they can heat their homes while the cold weather lasts without fear of a large fuel bill down the line.

“In light of this there should be a doubling of the fuel allowance this week in a one-off payment, so pensioners don’t have to shiver in their homes to save on fuel costs.

“Rather than tell people to rely on the Exceptional Needs Payment after the fact, the most efficient and easiest way to do this is to double the fuel allowance from the outset and give people peace of mind before temperatures plummet.”