Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021
56. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the independent analysis of the warmth and wellbeing scheme first commenced by an organisation (details supplied) will be completed; if he has received any interim reports; when the final report will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42299/21]
View answer67. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the current status of the independent analysis of the warmth and wellbeing scheme carried out by the London School of Tropical Medicine; the reason for the delay in its completion and publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42532/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 67 together.
The Warmth and Wellbeing pilot scheme aims to objectively measure and validate the health and wellbeing impacts of improving the living conditions of vulnerable people living in energy poverty with chronic respiratory conditions. The scheme is a collaboration between my Department and the Department of Health and is jointly administered by the Health Service Executive and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. Since 2016 over 1,300 homes have received free upgrades to their homes, including attic and wall insulation, window and door replacement and heating system upgrades where needed.
The Exchequer investment in this scheme has significantly improved the warmth and comfort of the homes involved. Initial reports have indicated that the upgrades are also delivering benefits to the health and wellbeing of participants, including reports of needing fewer GP and hospital visits, fewer prescriptions for antibiotics as well as increased engagement with other support services in the community. An independent analysis is being carried out by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), in collaboration with the Health Service Executive.
The research element of the scheme has unfortunately experienced significant delays due to complications associated with GDPR, Brexit and more recently the COVID-19 emergency. However, every effort is being made to progress the research as quickly as possible and I intend to publish the results before the end of this year. The findings will inform Government’s approaches to retrofitting, especially with regard to those who are more vulnerable and at risk of energy poverty
