Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)

I support the motion and believe the Government is hiding behind the CER on the matter. We have seen price increases of 25% in oil, 20% in electricity and 34% in gas at a time when energy prices are falling internationally. It has been claimed that the prices are affected because we are linked to Britain, yet the price of gas is 20% cheaper there and in the North of Ireland.

The Minister is hiding behind the regulator because the Government stands to benefit from a VAT bonanza. That money should be used to reduce the price of energy. The miserly fuel allowance of €14 per week for certain categories of social welfare recipients should be increased to at least €25, as recommended by St. Vincent de Paul, and payable over a 12 month period. This is particularly important for young families, given that 100,000 children live in poverty in this country.

See this speech in context