Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2013
355. Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a person in receipt of UK fuel allowance through a UK pension is entitled to apply for a better energy warmer homes scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32940/13]
View answerThe Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme on behalf of my Department. The scheme delivers a range of energy efficiency measures to households that are vulnerable to energy poverty. The scheme is delivered through a combination of SEAI appointed Community Based Organisations (CBOs), augmented by a panel of private contractors in order to ensure national coverage. Measures available include draught proofing, attic insulation, lagging jackets for hot water tanks, low energy light bulbs and cavity wall insulation and are free of charge to the customer.
Eligibility for the scheme is determined with reference to the following criteria:
- Owner occupied, non-Local Authority homes;
- Constructed before 2002.
The owner is in receipt of one of the following:
- Fuel Allowance as part of the National Fuel Scheme (means tested);
- Job Seekers Allowance for over six months and with a child under seven years of age;
- Family Income Supplement.
The UK Winter Fuel Payment is available to pensioners who currently or previously resided in the UK. This payment is available to all over 60s regardless of their means. The Department of Social Protection (DSP) has confirmed that persons in receipt of the UK Winter Fuel Payment are not precluded from applying for the Fuel Allowance. However, as the Fuel Allowance is a means tested payment, receipt of the UK Fuel Payment would have to be taken into account in assessing eligibility. Assuming an applicant who was in receipt of the UK Winter Fuel Payment was deemed eligible for the Fuel Allowance, there should be no impediment to them making an application for the Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme, subject to the other eligibility criteria being met.
