Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

A detailed review of the fuel allowance was carried out in 1998. A survey of recipients of the allowance on a customer panel showed that a majority, 58%, preferred weekly payment while only 8% would rather have two lump sum payments during the fuel season. As a result the Department kept the scheme as arranged. The Minister is open to reviewing this arrangement at a later stage.