Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2015
523. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7158/15]
View answerI have read the correspondence provided by the Deputy and have set out the means available to my Department to provide support in the very difficult circumstances outlined. There may be additional supports available through the Department of Social Protection, the HSE and the local authorities that the Deputy may wish to pursue.
The Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme, funded by my Department and administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), delivers a range of energy efficiency measures to low income households who are vulnerable to energy poverty and meet the scheme's eligibility criteria. Recipients of support under the scheme have energy efficiency measures installed free of charge.
To be eligible for the Warmer Homes scheme a person must be a homeowner and in receipt of one of the following: Fuel Allowance as part of the National Fuel Scheme; Job Seekers Allowance for more than six months and with children under the age of 7; or Family Income Support.
If the correspondent referred to meets these eligibility criteria, they should apply to the SEAI. The Deputy can also contact SEAI at oireachtas@seai.ie. Queries to this e-mail address allow the SEAI to respond quickly to members of the Oireachtas on any queries they might have.
