Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I highlight the contrast. The Bill seeks to lock in year-on-year increases in the carbon tax until 2030, increases the Minister of State has admitted are regressive. Where are the corresponding increases in social welfare? At the very least, the Government should have ensured that was matched to make it fair.

The Government should also have addressed the weekly income limit that applies to access the fuel allowance of just €513.70 for a couple. As I have pointed out, that shows that most people will not be able to access the fuel allowance. It could and should have been addressed, but it was not. As structured at present, it is fundamentally unfair. As Senator Kyne has acknowledged, people in rural areas in particular will suffer. They do not have the alternative transport choices that some of us in urban areas have. It is grossly unfair. It could have been done in a much fairer way. It is a failure by the Government.