Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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73. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has received the research output from a body (details supplied) on the warmth and well-being scheme; when the results will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16259/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Warmth and Wellbeing pilot scheme aims to objectively measure and validate the health and wellbeing impacts of improving the living conditions of vulnerable people living in energy poverty with chronic respiratory conditions. The scheme is a collaboration between my Department and the Department of Health and is jointly administered by the Health Service Executive and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. Since 2016 over 1,200 homes have received free upgrades to their homes, including attic and wall insulation, window and door replacement and heating system upgrades where needed.

According to SEAI, the average cost per home completed to date is €22,800. This investment has significantly improved the warmth and comfort of the homes. Initial reports have indicated that the upgrades are also delivering benefits to the health and wellbeing of participants, including reports of needing fewer GP and hospital visits. An independent analysis is being carried out by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), in collaboration with the Health Service Executive.

The research element of the scheme has experienced significant delays due to complications associated with GDPR and the COVID-19 emergency.

Every effort is being made to progress the research as quickly as possible and I look forward to sharing the results with the Deputy and the public when they are available. The findings will inform Government’s approaches to retrofitting, especially with regard to those who are more vulnerable and at risk of energy poverty.