Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)

People on the front line, such as the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, have specifically mentioned the issue of fuel poverty. In this regard, they have asked that the fuel allowance rate should not be cut. The number of weeks for the fuel allowance has been cut while fuel costs have been increasing excessively, so people must pay more. I am completely opposed to this measure which will subject people to terrible hardship. Ordinary families are terrified of utility bills.

The Tánaiste did not specify how this carbon tax will be used. My understanding was that carbon taxes, if applied, were supposed to be used progressively. For example, will it be ring-fenced for retrofitting houses? If so, at least something could be gained from it rather than just having a straight tax.

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