Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy and I know she raised this issue yesterday as well. Undoubtedly, the significant increase in gas prices internationally is now working through to the very high increases which we are seeing in electricity prices. That is a real concern. We are also seeing it, of course, at the pumps in the forecourts in regard to petrol and diesel. The Government will take this into account in framing budget 2022. The fuel allowance is a really important support for about 375,000 households in the country. As the Deputy knows, it kicks in next week for 28 weeks at a payment of €28 per week. Of course, the rate and the scope and the eligibility criteria for that scheme will be considered carefully by the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, and me in the context of the Estimates. We recognise that a lot of people are under pressure and we will take that into account in framing our final decisions.

See this speech in context