Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies Naughten and Kerrane for raising this matter. I understand why we need to compile such a report, and that is okay. I am happy to do the report, although I would prefer not to put this in legislation, as I have said, because it makes the process clunky. I am happy to give a commitment to carry out a report on the inclusion of all half-rate carer’s allowance recipients under the fuel allowance scheme. I will ask my officials to do that and bring the report before the House.

The fuel allowance is currently being paid to more than 365,000 households most at risk of fuel poverty for 28 weeks between October and April at an estimated cost of €300 million. As part of budget 2022, the rate of the fuel allowance was increased by €5, as Deputies noted, to €33 per week, effective from budget day. An increase in the means test threshold of €20 has also been implemented with effect from budget day. That did not happen before and we made sure both those measures kicked in from budget day. The Department of Social Protection also pays an electricity or gas allowance under the household benefits scheme and the household benefits package is separate from the fuel allowance scheme. A further €195 million will be spent on that scheme in 2021. More than 482,000 households will benefit from this to assist with their gas and electricity bills.

I know Deputy Kerrane has raised the question of a discretionary fund. Supplementary welfare allowance is there for people who are experiencing genuine difficulty. There is no limit on it. This is a demand-led scheme that is there to help people with costs, such as those relating to fuel bills, that they cannot afford to pay. It is for people who have genuine problems and who cannot afford to pay bills from their own resources. People can apply for that through their local community welfare officer.

The Government has also announced a €100 payment that will be made as soon as possible. I do not have the date but we will do everything to get that out to people because we know they want it. There have been a number of changes in the budget and we will continue to support people in every way we can. I will leave it at that. Speaking specifically to the amendment, I am happy to do the report spoken about by the Deputies.

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