Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 141: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there are measures to assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15 who is retired and on low income to cope with higher heating costs due to the severity of the winter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2803/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I share the Deputy's concerns about the impact of energy costs on vulnerable members of society. While I have no function in setting or regulating prices, I welcome the fact that the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) announced on 1 December 2008 that there would be no further increase in the price of gas from January 2009 and that there would be a small average decrease from this month of just less than 1% in the price of electricity supplied by ESB Customer Supply. This decision is reflective of recent easing in international fossil fuel prices, which follows a period of exponential increases in global oil, gas and coal prices. I also welcome the substantial rebate being provided by ESB to all electricity customers, which has helped to stabilise electricity prices for 2009.

The individual in question may be able to avail of my Department's Warmer Homes Scheme which is targeted at households on low incomes, such as those in receipt of fuel allowance, invalidity or disability benefit. The Scheme is overseen by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) and is delivered principally through community based organisations. It provides for the installation of cavity wall insulation, attic insulation, boiler lagging jackets, draught proofing measures and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). Advice is also provided to householders on minimising energy use. These measures are provided free or at a nominal cost.

In the case of the individual in question, I would advise the Deputy that contact should be made with the Clondalkin Home Improvement Project (CHIP) on 01-4670344. SEI has informed my Department that a surveyor can visit the individual's house as soon as next week to discuss his needs and assess what improvements can be made to minimise his energy usage.

I am working closely with the Minister for Social and Family Affairs to deliver a fully cohesive strategic approach on energy affordability issues across Government and Agencies. We have established an Inter Departmental/Agency Group led by our two Departments, which include the Departments of Finance, Taoiseach, Environment, Heritage and Local Government, the CER, SEI, ESB and BGÉ.

The Group is finalising a booklet containing information on how to keep well and warm in cold weather, in addition to providing details of all relevant supports available to vulnerable householders. I will arrange to have the booklet forwarded to the Deputy directly on its publication in the coming weeks. I am also forwarding the Deputy the Power of One information pack which contains valuable advice on how small steps can lead to big savings in terms of improving energy efficiency in the home.

The Deputy may also wish to apprise his constituent of two schemes being run by my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Firstly, the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme provides targeted support of up to 100% of cost to improve conditions in the houses of older people. The Scheme offers grants for a wide range of structural repair and improvements including rewiring, water, sanitary services, heating, windows, as well as central heating and insulation. Application is through the local authority.

Secondly, the Central Heating Scheme provides funding to housing authorities to upgrade their rented homes with measures such as attic insulation to Building Regulations' standards and draught proofing windows and doors.