Fuel poverty fears as winter approaches

Ulster Unionist North Antrim MLA, Rev Dr Robert Coulter, has questioned the Minister for Social Development on the effectiveness of the warm homes strategy in tackling fuel poverty, as the weather turns increasingly wintry.

"While I appreciate that the warm homes scheme plays a part in improving conditions for those living in fuel poverty, and commend the widened remit for eligibility, I feel that our efforts must go much further.

"Rising energy prices are an additional and worrying burden for all members of the community, but of course most particularly those getting by on a lesser income.

"While the Department of Social Development 's energy efficiency improvements, delivered through the commendable warm homes scheme, do tackle household behaviour in energy consumption and the energy performance of homes, I believe that much more needs to be done.

"Responding to my question, the Minister acknowledged that increases in energy prices have been the largest factor in the rise in fuel poverty numbers in recent years, and that is certainly a significant worry.

"I am aware of many within my constituency, and indeed across the province, who are struggling to make ends meet. They must be helped, and with the utmost haste."