Vol. 473 No. 3
175 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will consider doubling the free fuel allowance for Christmas week in view of the likelihood of inclement weather at this time of year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24939/96]
The aim of the national fuel scheme is to assist householders who are on long-term social welfare or health board payments and who are unable to provide for their own heating needs.
In recognition that it can be unpredictably cold in autumn and spring, the scheme is not confined to the winter months but runs for six months of the year, from mid-October to mid-April. The 1996-97 scheme will run from Monday 14 October 1996 to Friday 11 April 1997.
Expenditure on the national fuel scheme has increased by almost 65 per cent in the last five years from £26 million in 1989 to £42.8 million in 1995. This year a sum of £44 million has been set aside in the 1996 estimates for the scheme. This includes an amount for the increase in the income limits from £10 to £15 which I announced in this year's budget. The 1996-7 fuel season began on 14 October 1996 and from both an administrative and budgetary perspective it is now too late to consider doubling the fuel allowance for Christmas week.
However, a review of the scheme is being carried out by independent consultants to ensure that it is operating effectively and equitably and any changes to the scheme will be considered in the light of their report. The consultant's report is due shortly.
