Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister is aware the major shock through the increase in energy costs is only beginning to happen. By the time we get to next winter, this will be a major crisis and not just an issue for many people. I acknowledge the €200 to help with electricity bills and I acknowledge the extra €125 paid this week to 371,000 household in receipt of fuel allowance. The restrictions on fuel allowance mean many people who are in poverty do not get fuel allowance and need to use fixed incomes or low-wage incomes for these additional fuel bills. Many of them are making applications for exceptional needs payments to try to pay their fuel bills on an ongoing basis. What interaction does the Minister have with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications regarding the better energy warmer homes scheme? Is there much co-operation between the two Departments to encourage people to avail of the scheme and give them the chance to apply for it?

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