August 2008 – Fuel Allowance set to increase by 16% says Brady

Deputy Aine Brady has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Social Affairs, Mary Hanafin TD, that Fuel and Gas allowances for social welfare recipients are set to increase. This will ensure that they continue to receive the same amount of energy as before in light of the rise in energy prices. Deputy Brady met with Minister Hanafin last month to discuss the issue, after a number of pensioners raises the issue with her.

'The Fuel Allowance is been increased by 16%, bringing the allowance to €540 per year. The Gas Allowance will also be increased to €540 per year. '

'It is of vital importance that those who are affected most by the increase in fuel prices are protected and the Government's priority is to ensure that those who most need help with rising energy costs get the support that is required.'

'Further information on the Household Benefit Scheme and Fuel Allowance Scheme can be obtained from the Department of Social Affairs on 1 890 66 22 44 or 01 7043000.' concluded Deputy Brady. 



Allowance Type                 Current Annual Value        Revised Annual Value        Date applicable
                                          €                                  €

Electricity Urban                                      465.05                                                                                                                                  539.42                         1st August 2008
Electricity Rural                                               499.85                                              574.22                         1st August 2008
(higher standing charge)
Gas                                                        465.00                                              540.00                         1st August 2008

Under the Household Benefits scheme, the Electricity allowance covers standing charges and 2,400 units of electricity each year. Customers opting for the Gas allowance receive a similar amount of energy with the value of the Gas allowance having been aligned with that of the electric urban rate during 2006.

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