Michael Collins (Cork South-West, Independent Ireland Party)

The recent documents obtained following a freedom of information request exposed a shocking truth about the Government's priorities. Officials from the Department of climate and energy strongly advised that energy credits should be continued in budget 2026. They warned that without these credits, households would face an extra €321 per year on their bills. That is not a minor increase; it is a devastating blow for families that are already struggling. These same officials highlighted that electricity and gas prices remain sky high compared to pre-2022 levels. Gas is up 90% and electricity is up 61%. Arrears have surged to record levels with over 300,000 households now behind on their bills. That is the reality in homes across the country.

Let us remember that we are in the lead-up to Christmas, a time that should be about family, not fear. Parents are wondering how they will keep the lights on and put food on the table. As we have heard already, pensioners are choosing between heating and eating. This Government's decision makes that struggle even harder, yet despite clear and urgent advice, the Government chose to scrap energy credits. What was its excuse? It wants to move away from so-called ad hoc supports and focus on long-term investments. Tell that to the family freezing in its home this winter. Long-term plans do not pay the bills today.

Here is the hypocrisy: just before the last election, energy credits were handed out. Back then, the Government knew the value of helping households because it suited it politically. Now, when families need help most, it turns its back. This is not leadership; it is betrayal. The Government had the evidence and the warnings and it still chose to make life harder for ordinary families.

It is time it reversed this decision and put people first, not corporate profits. If this Government truly cared about families this Christmas, it could reinstate the energy credits. It is not rocket science; it requires Cabinet approval, a quick amendment to the existing legislation and a supplementary allocation of funds, just as was done before the last election. The ESB network and suppliers can deliver credits automatically, once instructed. The only barrier is political will. Families are facing record arrears and soaring bills. The Government has the tools, the authority and the money. What it lacks is the commitment. It should act now before Christmas becomes a crisis for thousands of households.

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