Mr. Matthew Collins:

I thank the Deputy. In regard to the query on the recommendation by the committee on reviewing the extent and nature of fuel poverty, and also the most appropriate measure, at the outset I gave a very brief summary in the opening statement which explains that a review of fuel poverty was undertaken by the Department in 2016. More recently, a similar study was carried out to again give an estimate of fuel poverty, so two studies have taken place already, with the ESRI's being the most recent.

In terms of the issue of identifying the most appropriate measure, I also outlined in my opening statement that, along with the SEAI, we are working with the CSO - the State's national statistics agency - which is best placed to inform us, in order to use its expertise in terms of identifying the most appropriate measure to be used in regard to fuel poverty, which will further inform policy development and the development of schemes.