Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Taoiseach said a moment ago that he understands the problems facing women balancing household budgets; that is why he cut children's benefits, is it? He has also cut the fuel allowance period by six weeks so that it does not extend beyond 5 April which is next week. He also cut the gas and the electricity allowance to those on the household benefits package and he allowed gas and electricity prices to increase. Last year he deducted one week's fuel allowance from more than 60,000 citizens because of an error. Many people in receipt of fuel allowance cannot afford to heat their homes. As I am sure the Taoiseach is aware, during this particular period people have to wear their overcoats indoors because they cannot afford to turn on the heating. This is particularly the case with pensioners who are very susceptible to hypothermia in these freezing conditions. We are told the cold snap could last for another four weeks.

It is a matter of record that the Taoiseach's Government is imposing savage cuts on the most vulnerable citizens while protecting the rich and the elites. It is an absolute shame. I am sure the Taoiseach would agree that people are suffering as a result of being cold in their own homes, but he can rectify this. Will he make an emergency order to extend the payment of the fuel allowance while these severe weather conditions prevail?

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