In advance of Fuel Poverty Awareness Day on Friday 3 December, Andy Allen MBE MLA, Ulster Unionist Communities spokesperson, has called for the Communities Minister to rapidly establish a Fuel Poverty Taskforce to help those vulnerable families who are dealing with the soaring cost of energy prices.

Mr Allen said:

“Friday the 3 December is Fuel Poverty Awareness Day and never has this been so relevant. The cost of living is soaring and the sky-rocketing rise in the cost of energy is placing untold pressures on many families across Northern Ireland.

“Over the past number of months, I have been lobbying the Communities Minister and other Executive colleagues to put a scheme in place to support the most vulnerable. We brought a motion to the Assembly at the start of November which was passed unanimously calling for the establishment of a winter emergency fund. I therefore welcome the Minister’s recent confirmation that she intends to launch a scheme before Christmas. 

“My Ulster Unionist Council colleagues have also brought this to local councils where it has received similar support.

“In addition, we are calling for the establishment of a Fuel Poverty Taskforce to deal with the short, medium and longer term challenges. Despite the call for such a taskforce receiving support from many within the community and voluntary sector who work daily to support those impacted by fuel poverty, the Minister is yet to deliver on this call. 

“Time is however of the essence, therefore I would ask the Minister to ensure the support fund and Taskforce are in place urgently as many across Northern Ireland desperately need solutions and support.”