Appeal to Mayo minister to 'get a better deal' for families left in the cold

A Mayo elected representative has called on Minister Alan Dillon 'to go back to government and push for real changes to tackle the cost of home heating oil', stating the current package simply does not reflect the needs of Mayo families.

Independent Councillor Harry Barrett said the supports announced lately might sound well, but for many working households they barely make a dent.

He elaborated: "A small reduction here and there is like putting a plaster on a broken leg.

"It’s not touching the reality of what people are paying, with a fill of oil now costing well over €1,700 in some cases. We're seeing a growing cohort of working poor now in this county.

“The truth is the government’s response doesn’t match what working people are facing on the ground,” he said.

"“Minister Dillon needs to bring that message back loud and clear. This needs to change. There are people earning just above the limits, getting no help at all, and they’re being squeezed from every side. They’ve been completely overlooked.”

Councillor Barrett also warned that older people are struggling badly, with many afraid to turn on their heating.

“For the elderly it’s like trying to fill a leaking bucket. No matter how careful they are, the money just isn’t stretching far enough. The cost has nearly doubled, and they simply can’t keep up.

“Mayo working families and our older people need proper help, not half measures.

"Minister Dillon needs to go back in and make the case, because right now, this just isn’t good enough.”