Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator and I can understand the concern, but I do not think that it applies in this case. None of the funding that has been allocated to this measure will come out of those other energy poverty measures, such as the better energy warmer homes scheme within our Department or several other measures which are also designed to tackle energy poverty. A certain amount of the funding will carry over from the previous year when, due to Covid-19, we were not able to carry out certain body works. However, the remainder will come from a separate Supplementary Estimate from my Department. This will be organised in conjunction with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. It will not lead to a diminution of any of the existing schemes. I am afraid, therefore, that I cannot agree to the amendment.