Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)

The fuel allowance scheme is constructive and excellent, which I appreciate. The additional allowance made available this year, while not enough, is welcome. However, time has moved on. To be fair to local authorities, they are installing central heating systems in an increasing number of homes. They are working their way through their stock at a more reasonable rate than that of recent years and I acknowledge their progress in this regard.

The amendment, which I welcome and support strongly, offers a very practical solution. We filled our almost-empty tank at home the week before last and it cost €580. If anyone believes this was a rip-off, he or she should let me know. People in receipt of fuel allowance are unlikely to be able to raise such a sum without going to a moneylender or another lender. Other speakers made the point that there is no evidence the amendment will cost the Exchequer an extra cent and I agree with them. If there is a difficulty with the two-payment system, the Minister should let us know. It seems straightforward to me.

A growing number of people are using oil-fired central heating because of growing refuse charges. The cost of disposing of ash from coal and timber fires is significant and increasing. I warmly support the amendment and hope the Minister will accept it.

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