Energy Regulation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020

Tuesday, 8 September 2020

Ceisteanna (92)

Mairéad Farrell

Ceist:

92. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to a scandal (details supplied) in the UK and the recent measures put in place by UK energy regulator, OFGEM, to protect consumers from unfair business practices in the pre-paid energy sector; and if his attention has been further drawn to similar unfair business practices in operation here and the potential need to protect consumers. [22455/20]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment

I am aware that the UK energy regulator, OFGEM, has recently published proposals to standardise and strengthen supports for customers who struggle to pay energy bills and customers who pay for energy on a pre-payment basis. Protections for Irish energy customers who pay for energy on a pre-payment basis are the responsibility of the Commission for Regulation of Utilities which comes under the aegis of the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Energy. Questions about protections and supports for these customers are a matter accordingly for the Minister for Climate Action, Communications Networks and Transport.