Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein)

I welcome the fact that the Minister has assured the House that post-budget the grant scheme in place will survive. That is encouraging for those who are hoping to make the improvements necessary.

Regarding fuel poverty, is it possible for the Minister to intervene with the regulator regarding the prices of ESB and Bord Gáis to ensure that energy is affordable and there will be no further hikes over the winter? The people are desperate to maintain heating for their families and, in particular, their elderly. A ministerial intervention, if it takes that, should be forthcoming.

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