Fuel allowance season extended

THE government is extending the fuel allowance season by four weeks - from Friday, April 10, to Friday, May 8, in response to the Covid emergency.

The move was confirmed today by the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Regina Doherty, and Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe.

The fuel allowance payment is made to over 370,000 of the most disadvantaged households in the country, including pensioners and those with disabilities, who are most at risk of fuel poverty.

It is paid at a rate of €24.50 per week for 28 weeks. The current 28-week season was due to finish on April 10.

Said Minister Doherty: “The Covid emergency presents a once in a century challenge to our society and our public services and we are determined that our department does everything we can to meet emerging needs and provide comfort to as many as possible.

“At a time where we wish people to stay at home to stay safe, it makes perfect sense to extend the fuel season for existing eligible customers on a once-off basis by four weeks, to May 8, in order to ensure the most vulnerable groups are provided with additional targeted financial supports in a timely and efficient manner.”

Added Minister Donohoe: “During this time of unprecedented difficulty for our people, we must ensure that our older and more vulnerable groups are as comfortable as possible, as people adhere to government instruction in order to stay safe.

“This extension will ensure those in receipt of this payment have one less thing to worry about and can remain safe and warm in their homes for the coming period.”