Gay Mitchell (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 849: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that old age pensioners are paying more for the golden rate per unit of gas in Dublin than younger persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28416/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Responsibility for the regulation of gas tariffs lies with the Energy Regulator, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER). The CER's legal remit regarding tariffs is set out in Section 23 (2) (b) (vii) of the Gas (Interim) (Regulation) Act, 2002. As the CER is legally independent in the performance of its functions, I have no function in the setting of gas tariffs.

I am, however, advised by the CER that the golden rate tariff is a special tariff that is specifically made available to customers over the age of 65. One of the advantages of this tariff is that it does not include a standing charge, as is the case with other tariffs charged to customers (such as the standard rate tariff).

This tariff is more favourable, (less expensive) compared to other tariffs up to an annual consumption of 10,200 kWh. Above this annual consumption, Bord Gáis Energy Supply (BGS) advise their customers to choose a more appropriate tariff based on the level of their consumption. For example, elderly customers living with family may have a higher annual consumption and, therefore, would be advised to select a different type of tariff.

BGS has published a leaflet on gas tariffs called, 'Your Tariff, Your Choice', which is available from BGS or on the BGS website www.bordgaisenergysupply.ie, in which the optimum rates for each customer are explained.