Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On the topic of energy suppliers and the cost of utility bills, it is really important that we consider the number of people who, on the advice of the Government, are working from home. Working from home is having a huge impact on the cost of utility bills, as well as the general increases that we have been talking about today. Many people are spending a lot more time at home, which is contributing to increases in their bills. I have been contacted by a number of constituents who have taken steps to retrofit their homes, and who are opting to go for the renewable forms of energy because they are concerned by the prospect of rising energy costs and spending more time at home. While the Government does whatever is in its power to tackle rising energy costs, this is also the perfect opportunity to encourage homeowners to make the switch to long-term, more affordable and sustainable sources of energy. The announcement earlier of the €100 credit will be welcomed by many families throughout the country. I thank the Minister of State and the Government for introducing it.

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