Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Government took a number of measures in the budget to protect people from the cost-of-living crisis, not least the increase in the fuel allowance for those who are over 70 years of age and who earn up to €26,000 and for couples earning up to €52,000 where one member of the couple is over 70. That is a really important measure. Many people are waiting for it, particularly because of the benefits of the better energy warmer homes scheme, but the Department is indicating that the payments will be made in the first quarter of next year and backdated to 1 January. Will the Tánaiste raise with the relevant Minister the need to have applications for the scheme open as soon as possible in order that people can make their applications and that the Department process those claims as soon as possible?

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