Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)

While I am supporting this motion on the basis of its rejection of the recent decision to introduce significant increases in gas and electricity prices, I am amazed at the motion's failure to address all the implications of these increases. From meeting elderly people in my constituency and, in particular, those who live alone, I have become aware that the increases are causing great concern and hardship among older people. I concur with Deputy Cowley that the increases will ultimately cause deaths. The recent decision of the CER to grant price increases should be reversed. The Government should not hide behind the regulator because it is supposed to be running the country. Coming just as we enter the coldest period of the year, these increases represent cruel psychological, physical and financial blows to elderly people. This issue should focus our attention on the inadequacy of the fuel allowances and other supports for the elderly.

Yesterday, I attended a meeting of the forum for older people in the Stoneybatter area of the Dublin Central constituency, at which fuel costs were a priority issue. Many people pointed out that they need fuel allowances throughout the year and not only during the harshest months. Inadequate though it is, the allowance is cut off too soon, as the elderly will be the first to tell the Government if it is prepared to listen. The budget submission by the Irish Senior Citizens Parliament calls for the doubling of the current fuel allowance. I support this demand because of its importance to the well-being of vulnerable older people who are likely to suffer from hyperthermia if left exposed to the cold.

I am astonished this aspect of gas and electricity price increases did not receive a single mention in the Fine Gael motion. I am not surprised, however, that the issues of Shell's exploitation and the handover by our Government of our resources is not mentioned. The protection of the elderly must be our first priority.

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