Cork TD calls for 'woefully inadequate' fuel allowance to be increased  

One of the country’s largest charities has called for the winter fuel allowance to be increased in the budget, while a Cork TD has described the allowance as “woefully inadequate”.

The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) in its pre-budget submission noted the core value of the fuel allowance has been frozen since Budget 2022, despite prices now being approximately 60% higher for electricity and 90% higher for gas compared to 2021. The charity has called for a weekly increase of €9.50 on the allowance, and has asked that the Government extend the fuel allowance to recipients of the working family payment.

Cormac O’Sullivan, south-west regional co-ordinator with the SVP, said Budget 2026 must provide support to people at risk of energy poverty, adding: “Without this targeted assistance, we are concerned energy arrears will soar even higher, and pre-pay customers will be facing repeated self-disconnections, spending this winter with inadequate heating and light.

“Whilst the fuel allowance has been temporarily boosted with annual payments — which have provided essential support to people — we head into Budget 2026 with no certainty about the level of assistance that will be offered.”

“Will people be paying for their energy at 2025 prices, with 2022 levels of assistance?” Mr O’Sullivan added.

Wellbeing

He said that extending the fuel allowance to recipients of the working family payment would help to ensure the warmth and wellbeing of the 100,000 children who live in these families.

Meanwhile, Ken O’Flynn, Independent Ireland TD for Cork North Central, described the fuel allowance as “woefully inadequate” in the face of soaring living costs.

“In the very month families prepare for winter, they are hit with higher electricity tariffs from Flogas, increased customs charges from An Post, and continuing hikes in the cost of groceries,” he said.

“Whatever relief the fuel allowance offers is being erased before it even lands; €33 a week does not heat a home in modern Ireland, and it is insulting to suggest otherwise.”

Meaningless

Mr O’Flynn called for the fuel allowance to be extended all year around to older people and those in poor health. He added that those who depend on medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators, dialysis machines, and ventilators should receive targeted supports for their electricity bills.

“We are told Ireland has record tax receipts and is one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe,” he said.

“That is meaningless if the people who need help most are left choosing between food, warmth, and survival.”

The winter fuel allowance is normally paid out from the third week of September for 28 weeks, until April, and is payable at €33 per week or in two instalments of €462, to a total of €924.

To qualify for the winter fuel allowance, applicants must — among other criteria — be 66 or over (or under 66 and get a qualifying social welfare payment), live alone or live with certain others listed by the Department of Social Protection, and satisfy a means test.