Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I understand this measure has been poverty proofed, as indicated by the Minister of State. I ask him to arrange to make available to Opposition Members the relevant data, including the number of people on which this tax will have a negative impact. I would appreciate it if the Minister of State gave an undertaking to make the material available.

Does the Minister of State accept that there is a significant problem with regard to fuel poverty? Most of the groups working in the area claim it is a significant problem. Does the Minister of State accept this point? Does he accept that, by introducing additional taxes, the problems will be exacerbated? If it does not happen this winter, it will happen next winter. The number of people grappling with the problem of fuel poverty will increase. If the Minister of State accepts this, will he give an undertaking to address the point? Poverty eradication is a whole of government issue. Will the Minister of State give an undertaking to raise this point with the Minister for Social Protection with a view to introducing a counterbalancing measure prior to next winter?

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