Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 482: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the grant aid available to disabled persons to insulate their homes; the funding available towards carrying out the work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4702/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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For households on low incomes, such as those in receipt of fuel allowance, invalidity or disability benefit, the Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) managed by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) will install cavity wall insulation, attic insulation, a boiler lagging jacket, 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.

The total spend on the WHS in 2008 was €5.6M, which represented a doubling of the previous years allocation. In 2009 there is €20 million available to the WHS and this is expected to support energy efficiency interventions in up to 15,000 low income homes this year and should substantially reduce the time spent waiting for energy efficiency interventions under the scheme.

There are 20 community based organisations currently delivering the WHS, and represent coverage of just over two thirds of the country. It is a priority of the scheme that full national coverage is provided by community based organisations in 2009. It is planned to commence the introduction of new organisations from the end of March this year.

A number of improvements to the WHS will be introduced over the coming weeks, including a new free phone service designed to assist householders identify their nearest provider. If outside of current coverage, their details will be recorded and notified as soon as the service becomes available in their area. In addition, a new website will be launched to allow homeowners, neighbours or relatives find out more information about the WHS and other grant schemes available in their area.