Ritchie sees the benefits of Warm Homes in Downpatrick

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie today visited a Downpatrick home to see at first hand the benefits of the Warm Homes Scheme.

The home, visited by the Minister today, was recently made 43% more energy efficient by replacing its Petroleum Gas system with a new oil central heating system installed through the Warm Homes Scheme.

Margaret Ritchie said: “What I have seen here today illustrates the huge difference this scheme can make to people’s lives, their warmth , their comfort and their heating bills. "

The Warm Homes Scheme is the Department for Social Development’s main instrument in tackling fuel poverty in Northern Ireland. Since its introduction in 2001, almost 75,000 homes across Northern Ireland have benefited from a range of measures which have significantly improved their energy efficiency.

Margaret Ritchie said: “I am committed to improving the warmth and comfort of vulnerable households and I will continue to do everything in my power to assist those in poverty. The Warm Homes Scheme has already improved the energy efficiency of over 4,000 homes this year.

"I want to thank Bryson Charitable Group for their contribution in carrying out the work on this and many other homes on behalf of the Housing Executive. I would also like to thank Ms McMullan for inviting me into her home, and affording me the opportunity to see for myself how this scheme has benefited her.”

Notes to editors:

1. The Warm Homes Scheme targets low income households, including those with solid fuel, Economy 7 or Liquid Petroleum Gas heating systems.
2. Minister Ritchie visited the home of Ms Sheena McMullan at The Green, Downpatrick.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9497. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.