Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yes. I am not being reassured that people can choose to move away from having their information transmitted. People may sign up and later decide that they do not want to continue with that system. Under GDPR, it does not seem proportionate to require half-hourly information to be transmitted.

I hope people engage and believe people are engaging in energy-efficiency practices but there is a worrying dynamic. This was reflected in a cavalier statement by the Government in 2009 implying that households under considerable pressure could shop around. There is a fear that households do not seem to be at the top of the priority list when it comes to energy and electricity policy. We do not want people to be told that whatever is being done on the energy policy is acceptable because they can shop around or wash in the middle of the night. This is why I am saying there is concern. We want to encourage people to take energy-efficient steps. However, if standing charges are not addressed, with the consequence that it feels like information is flowing out, it is another matter. Is it possible to exit if one wishes?

The energy poverty action plan states vulnerable customers will be moved automatically to the most economical tariff and allowed to access bill pay regardless of their credit record. That is important because we know there are cash surcharges for those who are happy to pay by cash. Will the representatives confirm whether the policies on access to bill pay for vulnerable customers, regardless of their credit records, and the prohibition of surcharges for those who pay in cash have been addressed?