Minister Ritchie said: “As an Executive we have the right policies on energy efficiency and support to address fuel poverty over the longer term.
“However, with these huge increases in gas, oil, coal and electricity many households will be facing a bleak, cold winter and we must do more in the short term.
“That is why I am bringing together all of the main stakeholders in the energy sector so that we can identify practical ways of helping the most vulnerable. The Task Force will:
- Identify those households that will suffer most from the fuel price increases so that they can be targeted for direct help.
- Co-ordinate available funding across a range of Government Departments (in addition to ‘Warm Homes’) so that it has maximum impact on fuel poverty.
- Work with the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Investment, Industry Regulator and Consumer Council to ensure that the privately-owned energy companies are doing everything they can to counter fuel poverty.”
In addition, the Minister announced that she would be travelling to meet the Secretary of State for Work & Pensions and would be asking the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer to increase the Winter Fuel Payment.
Margaret Ritchie said: “Northern Ireland is colder than the average UK region but has the highest fuel and energy prices. There is a very strong case for a substantial increase or substantial refocusing of the Winter Fuel Payment so that it is of maximum benefit to those facing hardship and cold this winter.”
The Minister concluded: “A range of Government Departments, regulatory authorities and agencies have responsibilities across the factors that determine fuel poverty. The energy companies themselves also have an important social responsibility especially in relation to their most vulnerable customers.
“I am happy to lead on this. I am pleased to bring these players together so that we can all focus our efforts on helping those in most need. The Task Force will report back to me later this summer and it is my intention to secure Executive support for a package of measures to help those people already living in fear of what this winter may bring.”
Notes to Editors:
1. The Minister for Social Development Margaret Ritchie has invited senior officials from the following Departments: the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister (poverty), the Departments of Finance & Personnel, Health & Social Services & Public Safety (care of the elderly), Enterprise Trade & Investment (energy policy and tariffs), Agriculture & Rural Development (rural households) to join the Task Force.
2. DSD Officials and the Social Security Agency will also be on the Task Force along with the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group, Housing Executive, General Consumer Council, National Energy Action and the Utility Regulator. The Task Force will engage with the energy companies directly.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9497. Out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
