Ms Clare O'Connor:

Deputy Bruton's suggestion on low-interest loans from the credit union is a good idea. I would go so far as to propose zero-interest loans, which have been introduced in low-income households in Germany and the Netherlands. On expanding eligibility for the free retrofitting schemes, we are suggesting that tenants on the HAP payment be included in the warmer homes scheme on condition of a long-term lease being offered. There is still a large cohort of households which are not able to access these schemes. Ultimately, the success of climate action and any of the transition will hinge on public acceptance and buy-in. It is really important that the public perceive this as a fair transition. It is also important that we include as many households as we can in the warmer homes scheme and prioritise those who are in the least efficient homes.