DSD corrects CaraL Ni Chuilin MLA regarding fuel poverty

The Department for Social Development (DSD) today corrected MLA Caral Ni Chulin's misunderstandings regarding fuel poverty.

A DSD spokesperson said: "On BBC's Good Morning Ulster this morning, Caral Ni Chuilin MLA stated that it was her understanding that Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie's fuel poverty paper 'was cleared some two months ago under urgent procedures'.

"The Department would like to highlight that this is not the case. This paper has still to be discussed by the Executive and was not cleared under urgent procedures."

The DSD spokesperson then addressed Ms Chuilin's allegations that NIE could benefit from the proposals in Margaret Ritchie's fuel poverty paper. The DSD spokesperson said: "Minister Ritchie has never encouraged any element of gain for any energy company. In fact NIE has today confirmed that they will not benefit from any proposed fuel credit payment."

Notes to Editors:

For further information, please contact DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9079.