asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will give full details of the fuel scheme in operation during this winter together with any proposed changes envisaged for the coming year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fuel Scheme.
87.
The fuel scheme, which operates in 17 cities and towns mainly along the eastern and southern coasts from October to April inclusive, is administered by the local authorities concerned under the general control of my Department.
Those eligible under the scheme are recipients of non-contributory old age or blind pensions, widows' pensions, contributory or non-contributory, supplementary welfare allowances and unemployment assistance, where there are dependants, as well as persons on low income. The cost, excluding administrative expenses, is met from the Vote for my Department except in the case of supplementary welfare allowance recipients.
As from the current season the local authorities concerned issue vouchers to the value of £1.50 weekly which are exchangeable for any type of fuel or which can be used to pay gas or electricity bills. This arrangement replaces the old one under which 1 cwt. of turf was supplied weekly. With two exceptions all the local authorities are operating the revised scheme and in Dublin city and Dún Laoghaire recipients have a choice of either method.
I will shortly be considering what further improvements may be desirable and feasible for the coming year. Apart from the fuel scheme, persons with expectional heating needs may qualify for assistance under the supplementary welfare allowances scheme operated by the health boards.
What are the two authorities? Does the Minister not agree that in justice and equity they should be asked to reconsider their decision?
The whole scheme will be under review. In relation to the Deputy's query I will ask that question of the two relevant authorities.
Who are the two authorities?
That is what Deputy L'Estrange asked.
Wicklow and Enniscorthy.
In reconsidering the matter will the Minister seek to achieve uniformity throughout the country in respect of the administration of the free fuel scheme? He will be aware that at present it applies to the cities, the main centres of population in the country, and that there is doubt as to the eligibility of people in other parts of Ireland?
I am aware of the criticisms and problems raised by Deputies in the House and these will be taken into consideration in reviewing the scheme, including those raised today.
Did the Minister say that any changes in the scheme will be announced in good time for implementation before the commencement of—I hesitate to say the coming winter—next winter?
I can give that undertaking.
Would the Minister also indicate whether he feels that the situation where County Dublin is regarded as non-urban for the purposes of this scheme is unrealistic, especially in view of the fact that portion of it may now be of direct concern to the Minister himself?
I will give it consideration.
Question No. 88.