Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 April 2022
1001. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection the total amount that has been paid for the fuel allowance for the 2021-2022 winter season to date; the number of households that have received the payment for this season; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19761/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Fuel Allowance scheme is a means tested payment to assist pensioners and other long-term social welfare dependent householders with their winter heating costs. The payment is a contribution towards heating costs, it is not intended to meet these costs in full. The payment is made at the weekly rate of €33.00; or if preferred, by way of two lump sum payments; and is paid over the winter season. Only one Fuel Allowance is payable per household. Those who qualify for the payment do not need to reapply annually.
From the start of the 2021/2022 Fuel Allowance season to date, qualified recipients have received payment of €1,039. Following an additional payment of €100, to be paid in May to those who received fuel allowance on the last week of the season, the total payment to qualified householders this season will be €1,139. This represents a 55% increase (or €404) in fuel allowance support provided to low-income households compared to the 2020/2021 season. When taken in conjunction with the electricity costs emergency benefit payment, due to be paid in April, qualified householders will have received over €600 in additional targeted Government supports over the course of this fuel season - the equivalent of over 18 weeks additional fuel allowance.
The Department generally collates data on an annual basis. In 2021, the fuel allowance scheme supported approximately 375,000 households at an estimated cost of €316.5 million. The data for 2022 is not yet available.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
