Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Home heating oil prices are still lower than they were during mid-2008 which was the last time there was an increase in the fuel allowance rate. Home heating oil significantly reduced in price after that last increase in fuel allowance. The fuel allowance rate was not reduced at that time. The fuel allowance rate remained static when home heating products reduced in price. That granted an increase in the rate. To use lower prices during 2009 as a justification for an increase in fuel allowance at that stage would not be possible.

There is also the exceptional needs payment for anyone who may have difficulty in that respect.

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