Fianna Fáil TD Erin McGreehan has welcomed the commencement of this year’s Fuel Allowance scheme, confirming that 13,733 households in Louth will benefit from the payment.
The scheme, which begins today, has been expanded to allow more households to qualify ahead of the winter season. Nationwide, 410,000 households are set to receive the allowance, aimed at helping people meet the cost of heating their homes.
Deputy McGreehan described the scheme as “an essential measure for many households throughout the country,” adding: “I am delighted that this scheme will now benefit more households than ever before, with 13,733 of those households in my own constituency.”
The allowance will run for 28 weeks and can be paid weekly at a rate of €33, or through two lump-sum instalments of €462.
Deputy McGreehan highlighted the expansion of the scheme to include those aged 66 and over, who do not need to be receiving a social welfare payment to qualify, as well as those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, subject to a means test.
“This means the Fuel Allowance is helping those who need it most,” she said, praising Minister Calleary for the changes.
Concluding, Deputy McGreehan said: “The introduction of Fuel Allowance has been a huge success and has given households a helping hand for the last few years. The cost of heating your home is challenging, and we want to give households a helping hand. In Fianna Fáil, we are committed to helping more households stay warm and supported this winter.”
