AQW 24748/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 21/10/2021
Answered On Date: 15/11/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 23467/17-22, (i) to outline the current support for people facing rising energy costs; and (ii) to detail any specific plans she has to increase this support this winter.

Answer:

This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department is engaging with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council, and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts.

My Department currently provides support on energy costs through Cold Weather Payments, Winter Fuel Payments and Discretionary Support.