Dan Boyle (Green Party)

I support the call for a debate on fuel poverty. The Government's mechanism for tackling it is through the fuel allowance payments. Commitments should be given to not only increase the amount of the fuel allowance payment but also to extend its duration. A small effort was made in this year's budget and will continue in the lifetime of the Government. This is the best mechanism for dealing with the increases in energy costs.

The price of a barrel of oil now stands at €126. Whatever the Opposition may think about the Government's management of the economy, this is one increase for which the Government cannot be accused. There must be a policy of energy efficiency, better energy management and better insulation of housing. Those on low incomes deserve a debate on their real needs from this House rather than the scoring of political points.