Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I would like to raise with the Taoiseach today the issue of protection of our senior citizens before the harsh winter sets in. I ask that he reverse the fuel cuts for vulnerable older people. The Taoiseach knows that these people have served the State well for many years, in particular in the 1980s when they took a major hit in terms of taxes. We heard earlier on in this House that €500,000 is to be paid to senior bankers at a time when we are taking €3 or €4 in terms of fuel allowances from our senior citizens.

Does the Taoiseach agree with Age Action Ireland that it is unacceptable to target these people and that to do so is highly dangerous? Does he share my concerns that many older people could over the next few months die from cold-related illnesses such as pneumonia? Why did the Taoiseach and Government cut the free electricity and gas units allowance under the household benefits package by 25% and 20% respectively? Is the Taoiseach aware of the huge gas and electricity price increases in recent weeks and that many of our senior citizens are scared? Does he know that recently electricity prices increased by 12% and gas increased by 20%?

I ask that the Taoiseach reverse these cuts as a matter of priority.

See this speech in context