East Belfast Ulster Unionist Representative and Communities Spokesperson, Andy Allen MBE, has emphasised the need to establish a fuel poverty task force to develop solutions to support households impacted by the cost of living crisis.

Mr Allen said:

“I continue to be contacted by individuals and families from right across Northern Ireland who are struggling to manage household budgets due to the significant rise in the cost of living. Over the past number of months, we have seen increase after increase in the cost of energy which is pushing households beyond the brink.

“This crisis requires a joined-up response from across Government, especially the Departments for Communities and Economy. Therefore, I am again calling on the Minister for Communities to set up a fuel poverty task force to develop solutions and interventions that can be brought forward promptly after May 5th, to provide much-needed support for thousands of people.

“Furthermore, the emergency fuel payment scheme should be extended to provide a safety net.

“The overwhelming majority of people I have spoken to want to see politicians working to deliver solutions to the cost of living crisis.”