John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Question 412: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the percentage increase in gas prices over the past twelve months; his plans to ensure that these prices are not passed on to the consumers; if the Government will assist older people who find it difficult to afford the new gas prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4851/07]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I have no function in relation to international gas prices, which are set by global commodity markets. With regard to the prices charged by Bord Gáis Éireann, under the Gas (Interim) (Regulation) Act 2002, sole responsibility for the regulation of these prices lies with the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is an independent statutory body. The prices charged by independent suppliers in the Irish gas market are not regulated. The question of measures to assist older people is a matter for the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, who secured an increase in the rate of the National Fuel Scheme from €14 to €18 per week in the recent Budget.